The IRS Direct File pilot is open to eligible taxpayers in 12 pilot states to file their 2023 federal tax returns online for free — directly with the IRS. Direct File is accurate, secure and easy to use.

Try the innovative new option by April 15

<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vZGlyZWN0ZmlsZS5pcnMuZ292LyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDA0MDkuOTMwODIzOTEifQ.8OzO3aQbNW9lDEeNiEK_qmpPZ1htB7GMLUxBQP3RvRY/s/1558083055/br/240394527680-l">IRS Direct File</a>&nbsp;is available 24/7 — in English and Spanish — for&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vZGlyZWN0ZmlsZS5pcnMuZ292LyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDA0MDkuOTMwODIzOTEifQ.zoqFXZ_4taQAiuYCcgWd3Lt1aSF9wkLlakueXZ8SWoU/s/1558083055/br/240394527680-l">eligible taxpayers</a>&nbsp;in Arizona, California, Florida, Nevada, New Hampshire, New York, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington and Wyoming until April 15. People in Massachusetts can use Direct File until April 17 to file, due to the Patriots’ Day and Emancipation Day holidays.

Direct File is a new option for taxpayers who live in a pilot state and report&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvYWJvdXQtaXJzL3N0cmF0ZWdpYy1wbGFuL2lycy1kaXJlY3QtZmlsZS1waWxvdCNpbmNvbWUiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDA5LjkzMDgyMzkxIn0.B6TxH8fNXKuOi8w6dZIxNecqYVHo-7QjDxXgEdypCw4/s/1558083055/br/240394527680-l">certain types of income</a>, claim&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvYWJvdXQtaXJzL3N0cmF0ZWdpYy1wbGFuL2lycy1kaXJlY3QtZmlsZS1waWxvdCNjcmVkaXRzIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQwOS45MzA4MjM5MSJ9.SKsWYlecZghRNlORe2R-HsfVojXUDIkOWXXl28pK8Ic/s/1558083055/br/240394527680-l">certain credits</a>&nbsp;and take&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvYWJvdXQtaXJzL3N0cmF0ZWdpYy1wbGFuL2lycy1kaXJlY3QtZmlsZS1waWxvdCNkZWR1Y3Rpb25zIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQwOS45MzA4MjM5MSJ9.lZhznHelVq5gtkvsuk2mHLSQ0yIFcSd-hEW92QTJbQM/s/1558083055/br/240394527680-l">certain deductions</a>. Taxpayers can go to&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vZGlyZWN0ZmlsZS5pcnMuZ292LyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDA0MDkuOTMwODIzOTEifQ.LMet0e1QA3AdYQY0s81aUyw_F0F46FOgSZnrCFSQppU/s/1558083055/br/240394527680-l">directfile.irs.gov</a>&nbsp;to see if Direct File is the right option for their tax situation. Taxpayers can log in to&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vZGlyZWN0ZmlsZS5pcnMuZ292LyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDA0MDkuOTMwODIzOTEifQ.pvaOA6dFi9qL42XipLKNXveEhJXRL7zZqR70TnHeCUk/s/1558083055/br/240394527680-l">Direct File</a>&nbsp;to start their return and complete it before the April filing deadline.

Sign-in to Direct File securely and file online directly with IRS

Taxpayers will need to verify their identity and securely sign in to file their return with the Direct File pilot.

If taxpayers don’t have an existing account with the IRS, they will be directed to&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcHJpdmFjeS1kaXNjbG9zdXJlL2hvdy10by1yZWdpc3Rlci1mb3ItaXJzLW9ubGluZS1zZWxmLWhlbHAtdG9vbHMiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDA5LjkzMDgyMzkxIn0.zg9ST52E9RrfkCzoawYZjJ_ciyr-xHM4kP5WCruBMvc/s/1558083055/br/240394527680-l">create an account</a>&nbsp;to verify their identity. Once their identity is verified and they’ve signed in securely to Direct File, they will be providing the tax information directly to the IRS, not a third party.

Live chat with IRS Direct File staff

IRS Direct File customer service representatives will be available daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. ET. including April 13 and 14, to help taxpayers file before the tax deadline. Live representatives offer technical support and answer basic tax law questions in English and Spanish. Representatives cannot access taxpayer account data.

After April 17, live chat customer support for Direct File will only be available through April 20 to assist filers who submitted their tax return with Direct File before the filing deadline and need assistance with a resubmission or a technical issue.

Direct File offers Direct Deposit and payment options

Direct File, like other electronic filing options, allows taxpayers to typically get their refund in less than 21 days when they choose direct deposit. Taxpayers can check their refund status at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcmVmdW5kcyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDA0MDkuOTMwODIzOTEifQ.5SsmDl_VseI7yPm__UOsWYp_qy0EYzP5C6vZ3KsSvfs/s/1558083055/br/240394527680-l">IRS.gov/refunds</a>&nbsp;24 hours after the IRS accepts their return. Taxpayers who owe tax can make a payment online. Tax payments are due on April 15 for most taxpayers. Learn about IRS payment options at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcGF5bWVudHMiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDA5LjkzMDgyMzkxIn0.RO3u9a_8RSX_Dz_NPEILKMYxcRXH_phARuXpjsxJ0jU/s/1558083055/br/240394527680-l">IRS.gov/payments</a>.

What to do when IRS Direct File is not the right fit

Everyone should choose the filing option that is best for them. If Direct File is not the right fit, simply choose another option to file, such as other free filing options, a tax professional or paid commercial tax software. Taxpayers who try Direct File but aren’t eligible for the pilot, are directed to other available&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZmlsaW5nL2UtZmlsZS1vcHRpb25zIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQwOS45MzA4MjM5MSJ9.KdI-bVkrpCSm2VBMlgI8uAiX873JLIkRRu07FpQtvCY/s/1558083055/br/240394527680-l">electronic options to file</a>&nbsp;including&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaXJzLWZyZWUtZmlsZS1kby15b3VyLXRheGVzLWZvci1mcmVlIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQwOS45MzA4MjM5MSJ9.eZB1c1CQjDnZxe7JgNxU9lk-m0EK4_IW9X4C3X7Vnfg/s/1558083055/br/240394527680-l">IRS Free File</a>.

No matter their income, all taxpayers can<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZmlsaW5nL2ZyZWUtZmlsZS1ldmVyeW9uZS1jYW4tZmlsZS1hbi1leHRlbnNpb24tZm9yLWZyZWUiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDA5LjkzMDgyMzkxIn0.nuhOcqGJRWcFzw-LUDFDIfhowDqHMcfRBIMbvrPJIzU/s/1558083055/br/240394527680-l">file an extension with a trusted IRS Free File partner</a>&nbsp;to electronically request a six-month extension of time to file. Filing an extension does not mean additional time to pay taxes owed. To avoid penalties and interest, taxpayers should&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcGF5bWVudHMiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDA5LjkzMDgyMzkxIn0.x8F5jdbjvX3PXtmVAn6CbAY96R3QY39AXL_5EzCE1lA/s/1558083055/br/240394527680-l">pay the balance</a>&nbsp;in full or pay as much as they can before the April filing deadline.

Direct File pilot does not offer the service to amend a 2023 tax return. Taxpayers can use the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaGVscC9pdGEvc2hvdWxkLWktZmlsZS1hbi1hbWVuZGVkLXJldHVybiIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDA0MDkuOTMwODIzOTEifQ.qIfcE2IgpwL24SakqT-_OTm56Q5DT4Zlb6CXw1r8Lyo/s/1558083055/br/240394527680-l">Interactive Tax Assistant tool on IRS.gov</a>&nbsp;to determine if they need to file an amended return to correct an error or to make other changes after filing. See,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZm9ybXMtcHVicy9hYm91dC1mb3JtLTEwNDB4IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQwOS45MzA4MjM5MSJ9.OIfPP3cAinHi9AweK4gk0s-NPZQxD3NMaY7Qq9Lis5Q/s/1558083055/br/240394527680-l">About Form 1040-X, Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return</a>, for instructions on how to amend a tax return.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Internal Revenue ServiceThe IRS Direct File pilot is open to eligible taxpayers in 12 pilot states to file their 2023 federal tax returns online for free — directly with the IRS. Direct File is accurate, secure and easy to use.Try the innovative new option by April 15<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vZGlyZWN0ZmlsZS5pcnMuZ292LyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDA0MDkuOTMwODIzOTEifQ.8OzO3aQbNW9lDEeNiEK_qmpPZ1htB7GMLUxBQP3RvRY/s/1558083055/br/240394527680-l">IRS Direct File</a>&nbsp;is available 24/7 — in English and Spanish — for&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vZGlyZWN0ZmlsZS5pcnMuZ292LyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDA0MDkuOTMwODIzOTEifQ.zoqFXZ_4taQAiuYCcgWd3Lt1aSF9wkLlakueXZ8SWoU/s/1558083055/br/240394527680-l">eligible taxpayers</a>&nbsp;in Arizona, California, Florida, Nevada, New Hampshire, New York, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington and Wyoming until April 15. People in Massachusetts can use Direct File until April 17 to file, due to the Patriots’ Day and Emancipation Day holidays.Direct File is a new option for taxpayers who live in a pilot state and report&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvYWJvdXQtaXJzL3N0cmF0ZWdpYy1wbGFuL2lycy1kaXJlY3QtZmlsZS1waWxvdCNpbmNvbWUiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDA5LjkzMDgyMzkxIn0.B6TxH8fNXKuOi8w6dZIxNecqYVHo-7QjDxXgEdypCw4/s/1558083055/br/240394527680-l">certain types of income</a>, claim&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvYWJvdXQtaXJzL3N0cmF0ZWdpYy1wbGFuL2lycy1kaXJlY3QtZmlsZS1waWxvdCNjcmVkaXRzIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQwOS45MzA4MjM5MSJ9.SKsWYlecZghRNlORe2R-HsfVojXUDIkOWXXl28pK8Ic/s/1558083055/br/240394527680-l">certain credits</a>&nbsp;and take&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvYWJvdXQtaXJzL3N0cmF0ZWdpYy1wbGFuL2lycy1kaXJlY3QtZmlsZS1waWxvdCNkZWR1Y3Rpb25zIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQwOS45MzA4MjM5MSJ9.lZhznHelVq5gtkvsuk2mHLSQ0yIFcSd-hEW92QTJbQM/s/1558083055/br/240394527680-l">certain deductions</a>. Taxpayers can go to&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vZGlyZWN0ZmlsZS5pcnMuZ292LyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDA0MDkuOTMwODIzOTEifQ.LMet0e1QA3AdYQY0s81aUyw_F0F46FOgSZnrCFSQppU/s/1558083055/br/240394527680-l">directfile.irs.gov</a>&nbsp;to see if Direct File is the right option for their tax situation. Taxpayers can log in to&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vZGlyZWN0ZmlsZS5pcnMuZ292LyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDA0MDkuOTMwODIzOTEifQ.pvaOA6dFi9qL42XipLKNXveEhJXRL7zZqR70TnHeCUk/s/1558083055/br/240394527680-l">Direct File</a>&nbsp;to start their return and complete it before the April filing deadline.Sign-in to Direct File securely and file online directly with IRSTaxpayers will need to verify their identity and securely sign in to file their return with the Direct File pilot.If taxpayers don’t have an existing account with the IRS, they will be directed to&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcHJpdmFjeS1kaXNjbG9zdXJlL2hvdy10by1yZWdpc3Rlci1mb3ItaXJzLW9ubGluZS1zZWxmLWhlbHAtdG9vbHMiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDA5LjkzMDgyMzkxIn0.zg9ST52E9RrfkCzoawYZjJ_ciyr-xHM4kP5WCruBMvc/s/1558083055/br/240394527680-l">create an account</a>&nbsp;to verify their identity. Once their identity is verified and they’ve signed in securely to Direct File, they will be providing the tax information directly to the IRS, not a third party.Live chat with IRS Direct File staffIRS Direct File customer service representatives will be available daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. ET. including April 13 and 14, to help taxpayers file before the tax deadline. Live representatives offer technical support and answer basic tax law questions in English and Spanish. Representatives cannot access taxpayer account data.After April 17, live chat customer support for Direct File will only be available through April 20 to assist filers who submitted their tax return with Direct File before the filing deadline and need assistance with a resubmission or a technical issue.Direct File offers Direct Deposit and payment optionsDirect File, like other electronic filing options, allows taxpayers to typically get their refund in less than 21 days when they choose direct deposit. Taxpayers can check their refund status at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcmVmdW5kcyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDA0MDkuOTMwODIzOTEifQ.5SsmDl_VseI7yPm__UOsWYp_qy0EYzP5C6vZ3KsSvfs/s/1558083055/br/240394527680-l">IRS.gov/refunds</a>&nbsp;24 hours after the IRS accepts their return. Taxpayers who owe tax can make a payment online. Tax payments are due on April 15 for most taxpayers. Learn about IRS payment options at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcGF5bWVudHMiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDA5LjkzMDgyMzkxIn0.RO3u9a_8RSX_Dz_NPEILKMYxcRXH_phARuXpjsxJ0jU/s/1558083055/br/240394527680-l">IRS.gov/payments</a>.What to do when IRS Direct File is not the right fitEveryone should choose the filing option that is best for them. If Direct File is not the right fit, simply choose another option to file, such as other free filing options, a tax professional or paid commercial tax software. Taxpayers who try Direct File but aren’t eligible for the pilot, are directed to other available&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZmlsaW5nL2UtZmlsZS1vcHRpb25zIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQwOS45MzA4MjM5MSJ9.KdI-bVkrpCSm2VBMlgI8uAiX873JLIkRRu07FpQtvCY/s/1558083055/br/240394527680-l">electronic options to file</a>&nbsp;including&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaXJzLWZyZWUtZmlsZS1kby15b3VyLXRheGVzLWZvci1mcmVlIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQwOS45MzA4MjM5MSJ9.eZB1c1CQjDnZxe7JgNxU9lk-m0EK4_IW9X4C3X7Vnfg/s/1558083055/br/240394527680-l">IRS Free File</a>.No matter their income, all taxpayers can<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZmlsaW5nL2ZyZWUtZmlsZS1ldmVyeW9uZS1jYW4tZmlsZS1hbi1leHRlbnNpb24tZm9yLWZyZWUiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDA5LjkzMDgyMzkxIn0.nuhOcqGJRWcFzw-LUDFDIfhowDqHMcfRBIMbvrPJIzU/s/1558083055/br/240394527680-l">file an extension with a trusted IRS Free File partner</a>&nbsp;to electronically request a six-month extension of time to file. Filing an extension does not mean additional time to pay taxes owed. To avoid penalties and interest, taxpayers should&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcGF5bWVudHMiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDA5LjkzMDgyMzkxIn0.x8F5jdbjvX3PXtmVAn6CbAY96R3QY39AXL_5EzCE1lA/s/1558083055/br/240394527680-l">pay the balance</a>&nbsp;in full or pay as much as they can before the April filing deadline.Direct File pilot does not offer the service to amend a 2023 tax return. Taxpayers can use the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaGVscC9pdGEvc2hvdWxkLWktZmlsZS1hbi1hbWVuZGVkLXJldHVybiIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDA0MDkuOTMwODIzOTEifQ.qIfcE2IgpwL24SakqT-_OTm56Q5DT4Zlb6CXw1r8Lyo/s/1558083055/br/240394527680-l">Interactive Tax Assistant tool on IRS.gov</a>&nbsp;to determine if they need to file an amended return to correct an error or to make other changes after filing. See,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZm9ybXMtcHVicy9hYm91dC1mb3JtLTEwNDB4IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQwOS45MzA4MjM5MSJ9.OIfPP3cAinHi9AweK4gk0s-NPZQxD3NMaY7Qq9Lis5Q/s/1558083055/br/240394527680-l">About Form 1040-X, Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return</a>, for instructions on how to amend a tax return.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Top things to know about the IRS Direct File pilot as April filing deadline approaches

WASHINGTON — With the April 15 tax deadline approaching, the IRS reminds taxpayers there is still time file their federal income tax return electronically and request direct deposit.

Filing electronically reduces tax return errors as tax software does the calculations, flags common errors and prompts taxpayers for missing information. Most people qualify for electronic filing at no cost and, when they choose direct deposit, receive their refund within 21 days.

Taxpayers with income of $79,000 or less in 2023 can use&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaXJzLWZyZWUtZmlsZS1kby15b3VyLXRheGVzLWZvci1mcmVlIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQwMi45MjczMzgzMSJ9.dC1nPajqHLmODDJlA20nYtHD1JjXIIn_Xh8n-DQOlxE/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">IRS Free File</a>&nbsp;guided tax software now through Oct 15.&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZS1maWxlLXByb3ZpZGVycy9mcmVlLWZpbGUtZmlsbGFibGUtZm9ybXMiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDAyLjkyNzMzODMxIn0.SbELI67jFZXS75Cdt96auW6HwI4q7uKRskprQ1N9PP8/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">IRS Free Fillable forms</a>, a part of this program, is available at no cost to taxpayers of any income level and provides electronic forms for people to fill out and e-file themselves.

<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vZGlyZWN0ZmlsZS5pcnMuZ292LyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDA0MDIuOTI3MzM4MzEifQ.BNn2z0SHDM6gkkkKLyLnU5bTI7XE_9ZS92LJPVlr4Ts/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">IRS Direct File</a>&nbsp;is now open to all eligible taxpayers in 12 pilot states to decide if it is the right option for them to file their 2023 federal tax returns online, for free, directly with the IRS. Go to the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmRpcmVjdGZpbGUuaXJzLmdvdi8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDAyLjkyNzMzODMxIn0.UfxTnxKpKo3ZG1RXP0wmBz2JXWnYKPHHAKKLnKzOXio/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">Direct File</a>&nbsp;website for more information about Direct File pilot eligibility and the 12 participating states.

Through a network of community partnerships, the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vaXJzLnRyZWFzdXJ5Lmdvdi9mcmVldGF4cHJlcC8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDAyLjkyNzMzODMxIn0.th4wOAYy8crARmUgRLrqv0DgjQ7m9ssDDKmIzarcDa8/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE)</a>&nbsp;programs offer free tax return preparation to eligible people in the community by IRS certified volunteers.

<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lm1pbGl0YXJ5b25lc291cmNlLm1pbC9maW5hbmNpYWwtbGVnYWwvdGF4LXJlc291cmNlLWNlbnRlci9taWx0YXgtbWlsaXRhcnktdGF4LXNlcnZpY2VzIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQwMi45MjczMzgzMSJ9.zENLVGRFI7zVgIh4jY63gwwWuthqhTeeEl6BF0XqTH0/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">MilTax</a>, a Department of Defense program, generally offers free return preparation and electronic filing software for federal income tax returns and up to three state income tax returns for all military members, and some veterans, with no income limit.

Use ‘Where's My Refund?’ to check refund status

The&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3Yvd2hlcmVzLW15LXJlZnVuZCIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDA0MDIuOTI3MzM4MzEifQ.cKnbIR3lU_H7pInYlrJFA9ELS9qvdvB5wPueKuymQ94/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">Where's My Refund?</a>&nbsp;tool will normally show a refund status within 24 hours after e-filing a 2023 tax return, three to four days after e-filing a 2021 or 2022 return and four weeks after filing a tax return by mail. To use the tool, taxpayers need their Social Security number, filing status and exact refund amount. Taxpayers can also check ‘Where's My Refund?’ by downloading our free mobile app,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaGVscC9pcnMyZ29hcHAiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDAyLjkyNzMzODMxIn0.m_3lyXW0g9vjuSW7MnDJfEyFPjSDSWKGNlkAtqy9WWU/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">IRS2Go</a>, from an iPhone or Android device. The tool updates once a day, so people don't need to check more often.

Taxpayers that owe on their tax return

IRS reminds people they can avoid paying interest and some penalties by filing their tax return and, if they have a balance due, paying the total amount due by the tax deadline of Monday, April 15. For residents of Maine or Massachusetts, the tax deadline is Wednesday, April 17, due to Patriot’s Day and Emancipation Day holidays.

Payment options for individuals to pay in full

The IRS offers various options for taxpayers who are making tax&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcGF5bWVudHMiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDAyLjkyNzMzODMxIn0.w-iiAB_TSwu22nk6wYNCvpxvuLO-Lzvln1nFHH1ks-A/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">payments</a>:

Payment options for individuals unable to pay their taxes in full

Taxpayers that are unable to pay in full by the tax deadline, should pay what they can now and apply for an&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcGF5bWVudHMvb25saW5lLXBheW1lbnQtYWdyZWVtZW50LWFwcGxpY2F0aW9uIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQwMi45MjczMzgzMSJ9.m_0zif1r9TLqNsK34Qv1WbikPUcXZ0El4QZ9ADB4L7E/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">online payment plan</a>. They can receive an immediate response of payment plan acceptance or denial without calling or writing to the IRS.&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcGF5bWVudHMvb25saW5lLXBheW1lbnQtYWdyZWVtZW50LWFwcGxpY2F0aW9uIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQwMi45MjczMzgzMSJ9.XxoiSWZcJi8-T-roDFwDU6OzGl5Gl6FuAX8dqfYlYcQ/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">Online payment plan</a>&nbsp;options include:

Though interest and late-payment penalties continue to accrue on any unpaid taxes after April 15, the failure to pay penalty is cut in half while an installment agreement is in effect. Find more information about the costs of payment plans on the IRS’&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcGF5bWVudHMvcGF5bWVudC1wbGFucy1pbnN0YWxsbWVudC1hZ3JlZW1lbnRzIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQwMi45MjczMzgzMSJ9.Li4iRVO7cTlRV-c0-nvlr_cYFxQAeqavNq1ONLXZ0Tg/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">Additional Information on Payment Plans</a>&nbsp;webpage.

Individuals unable to file their tax return by the tax deadline can apply for a tax-filing extension in the following ways:

Use IRS.gov for the quickest and easiest information

Taxpayers can visit IRS.gov 24 hours a day for answers to&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNTEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaGVscC90YXgtbGF3LXF1ZXN0aW9ucyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDA0MDIuOTI3MzM4MzEifQ.ySdtYXyBz5KMWdPcSo8ww8tyM9_1HLr9KPAAbzGfpmc/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">tax questions</a>, more tips and resources by visiting the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNTIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaGVscC9sZXQtdXMtaGVscC15b3UiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDAyLjkyNzMzODMxIn0.JDlS4SUuHcmw-a2noFfKyHr6fwNmQaVjgNSC2IuPy_8/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">Let Us Help You</a>&nbsp;page.

IRSWASHINGTON — With the April 15 tax deadline approaching, the IRS reminds taxpayers there is still time file their federal income tax return electronically and request direct deposit.Filing electronically reduces tax return errors as tax software does the calculations, flags common errors and prompts taxpayers for missing information. Most people qualify for electronic filing at no cost and, when they choose direct deposit, receive their refund within 21 days.Free electronic filing optionsTaxpayers with income of $79,000 or less in 2023 can use&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaXJzLWZyZWUtZmlsZS1kby15b3VyLXRheGVzLWZvci1mcmVlIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQwMi45MjczMzgzMSJ9.dC1nPajqHLmODDJlA20nYtHD1JjXIIn_Xh8n-DQOlxE/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">IRS Free File</a>&nbsp;guided tax software now through Oct 15.&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZS1maWxlLXByb3ZpZGVycy9mcmVlLWZpbGUtZmlsbGFibGUtZm9ybXMiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDAyLjkyNzMzODMxIn0.SbELI67jFZXS75Cdt96auW6HwI4q7uKRskprQ1N9PP8/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">IRS Free Fillable forms</a>, a part of this program, is available at no cost to taxpayers of any income level and provides electronic forms for people to fill out and e-file themselves.<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vZGlyZWN0ZmlsZS5pcnMuZ292LyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDA0MDIuOTI3MzM4MzEifQ.BNn2z0SHDM6gkkkKLyLnU5bTI7XE_9ZS92LJPVlr4Ts/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">IRS Direct File</a>&nbsp;is now open to all eligible taxpayers in 12 pilot states to decide if it is the right option for them to file their 2023 federal tax returns online, for free, directly with the IRS. Go to the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmRpcmVjdGZpbGUuaXJzLmdvdi8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDAyLjkyNzMzODMxIn0.UfxTnxKpKo3ZG1RXP0wmBz2JXWnYKPHHAKKLnKzOXio/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">Direct File</a>&nbsp;website for more information about Direct File pilot eligibility and the 12 participating states.Through a network of community partnerships, the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vaXJzLnRyZWFzdXJ5Lmdvdi9mcmVldGF4cHJlcC8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDAyLjkyNzMzODMxIn0.th4wOAYy8crARmUgRLrqv0DgjQ7m9ssDDKmIzarcDa8/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE)</a>&nbsp;programs offer free tax return preparation to eligible people in the community by IRS certified volunteers.<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lm1pbGl0YXJ5b25lc291cmNlLm1pbC9maW5hbmNpYWwtbGVnYWwvdGF4LXJlc291cmNlLWNlbnRlci9taWx0YXgtbWlsaXRhcnktdGF4LXNlcnZpY2VzIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQwMi45MjczMzgzMSJ9.zENLVGRFI7zVgIh4jY63gwwWuthqhTeeEl6BF0XqTH0/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">MilTax</a>, a Department of Defense program, generally offers free return preparation and electronic filing software for federal income tax returns and up to three state income tax returns for all military members, and some veterans, with no income limit.Use ‘Where's My Refund?’ to check refund statusThe&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3Yvd2hlcmVzLW15LXJlZnVuZCIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDA0MDIuOTI3MzM4MzEifQ.cKnbIR3lU_H7pInYlrJFA9ELS9qvdvB5wPueKuymQ94/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">Where's My Refund?</a>&nbsp;tool will normally show a refund status within 24 hours after e-filing a 2023 tax return, three to four days after e-filing a 2021 or 2022 return and four weeks after filing a tax return by mail. To use the tool, taxpayers need their Social Security number, filing status and exact refund amount. Taxpayers can also check ‘Where's My Refund?’ by downloading our free mobile app,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaGVscC9pcnMyZ29hcHAiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDAyLjkyNzMzODMxIn0.m_3lyXW0g9vjuSW7MnDJfEyFPjSDSWKGNlkAtqy9WWU/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">IRS2Go</a>, from an iPhone or Android device. The tool updates once a day, so people don't need to check more often.Taxpayers that owe on their tax returnIRS reminds people they can avoid paying interest and some penalties by filing their tax return and, if they have a balance due, paying the total amount due by the tax deadline of Monday, April 15. For residents of Maine or Massachusetts, the tax deadline is Wednesday, April 17, due to Patriot’s Day and Emancipation Day holidays.Payment options for individuals to pay in fullThe IRS offers various options for taxpayers who are making tax&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcGF5bWVudHMiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDAyLjkyNzMzODMxIn0.w-iiAB_TSwu22nk6wYNCvpxvuLO-Lzvln1nFHH1ks-A/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">payments</a>:<ul>
 <li><a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcGF5bWVudHMvZGlyZWN0LXBheSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDA0MDIuOTI3MzM4MzEifQ.n0olIAEQhh3lOs0ziBzBUnAek_aD44LZx5EMiayiEQQ/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">Direct Pay</a>&nbsp;– Make a payment directly from a checking or savings account without any fees or registration.</li><li><a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcGF5bWVudHMvcGF5LXlvdXItdGF4ZXMtYnktZGViaXQtb3ItY3JlZGl0LWNhcmQiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDAyLjkyNzMzODMxIn0.5ltfmwv2Etw_wJYRiPPPIjW3FX0VUqTDUo8npsPAXm0/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">Pay with debit card, credit card or digital wallet</a>&nbsp;– Make a payment directly from a debit card, credit card or digital wallet. Processing fees are paid to the payment processors. The IRS doesn’t receive any fees for these payments. Authorized card processors and phone numbers are available at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcGF5bWVudHMiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDAyLjkyNzMzODMxIn0.Xm1wzZk44H265zKVre-5E5bBMVRNrvAiIn4UIlOj9ME/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">IRS.gov/payments</a>.</li><li><a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcGF5bWVudHMvZWZ0cHMtdGhlLWVsZWN0cm9uaWMtZmVkZXJhbC10YXgtcGF5bWVudC1zeXN0ZW0iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDAyLjkyNzMzODMxIn0.YIlcO6tPTqJK53p-bfe4X3GIaYlyUa6m38iqiPvm-hY/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">Electronic Federal Tax Payment System</a>&nbsp;(EFTPS) –This free service gives taxpayers a safe, convenient way to pay individual and business taxes by phone or online. To enroll and for more information, taxpayers can call 800-555-4477 or visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmVmdHBzLmdvdi9lZnRwcy8iLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDAyLjkyNzMzODMxIn0.i1cmLrR3PqLv6SRXXMP6Cpl14wpZymmKHdGunyfy8u0/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">eftps.gov</a>.</li><li><a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcGF5bWVudHMvcGF5LXRheGVzLWJ5LWVsZWN0cm9uaWMtZnVuZHMtd2l0aGRyYXdhbCIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDA0MDIuOTI3MzM4MzEifQ.DtUMwbQKs9Y_0wZM6NHK2qAvzY7mx6rkFIq6LC4wVH0/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">Electronic funds withdrawal</a>&nbsp;– Taxpayers can file and pay electronically from their bank account when using tax preparation software or a tax professional. This option is free and only available when electronically filing a tax return.</li><li><a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcGF5bWVudHMvcGF5LWJ5LWNoZWNrLW9yLW1vbmV5LW9yZGVyIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQwMi45MjczMzgzMSJ9.pJ3egYAoiXFy2oyFJCYaSGHtACYGla5FRrlzx3aKtio/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">Check or money order</a>&nbsp;–Payments made by check or money order should be made payable to the “United States Treasury.”</li><li><a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcGF5bWVudHMvcGF5LXlvdXItdGF4ZXMtd2l0aC1jYXNoIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQwMi45MjczMzgzMSJ9.RN-awYvWX22dDy_y6pmknfTPaesgx6P8y5aQzzFpGeQ/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">Cash</a>&nbsp;– Make a cash payment through a retail partner and other methods. The IRS urges taxpayers choosing this option to start early because it involves a four-step process. Details, including answers to frequently asked questions, are at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcGF5bWVudHMvcGF5LXdpdGgtY2FzaC1hdC1hLXJldGFpbC1wYXJ0bmVyIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQwMi45MjczMzgzMSJ9.C_pO49BcwD4nZWscx9UCQqxgkF_zjxKo21vL7pL88QI/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">IRS.gov/paywithcash</a>.</li>
 </ul>Payment options for individuals unable to pay their taxes in fullTaxpayers that are unable to pay in full by the tax deadline, should pay what they can now and apply for an&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcGF5bWVudHMvb25saW5lLXBheW1lbnQtYWdyZWVtZW50LWFwcGxpY2F0aW9uIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQwMi45MjczMzgzMSJ9.m_0zif1r9TLqNsK34Qv1WbikPUcXZ0El4QZ9ADB4L7E/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">online payment plan</a>. They can receive an immediate response of payment plan acceptance or denial without calling or writing to the IRS.&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcGF5bWVudHMvb25saW5lLXBheW1lbnQtYWdyZWVtZW50LWFwcGxpY2F0aW9uIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQwMi45MjczMzgzMSJ9.XxoiSWZcJi8-T-roDFwDU6OzGl5Gl6FuAX8dqfYlYcQ/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">Online payment plan</a>&nbsp;options include:<ul>
 <li>Short-term payment plan –The total balance owed is less than $100,000 in combined tax, penalties and interest. Additional time of up to 180 days to pay the balance in full.</li><li>Long-term payment plan – The total balance owed is less than $50,000 in combined tax, penalties and interest. Pay in monthly payments for up to 72 months. Payments may be set up using direct debit (automatic bank withdraw) which eliminates the need to send in a payment each month, saving postage costs and reducing the chance of default. For balances between $25,000 and $50,000, direct debit is required.</li>
 </ul>Though interest and late-payment penalties continue to accrue on any unpaid taxes after April 15, the failure to pay penalty is cut in half while an installment agreement is in effect. Find more information about the costs of payment plans on the IRS’&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcGF5bWVudHMvcGF5bWVudC1wbGFucy1pbnN0YWxsbWVudC1hZ3JlZW1lbnRzIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQwMi45MjczMzgzMSJ9.Li4iRVO7cTlRV-c0-nvlr_cYFxQAeqavNq1ONLXZ0Tg/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">Additional Information on Payment Plans</a>&nbsp;webpage.Unable to file by the April 15 deadline?Individuals unable to file their tax return by the tax deadline can apply for a tax-filing extension in the following ways:<ul>
 <li>Individual tax filers, regardless of income, can electronically request an automatic tax-filing extension through&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZnJlZWZpbGUiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDAyLjkyNzMzODMxIn0.JfBwazR7arNG0y7KvpT66jDlwwf3k6fsDtmPCjiML-s/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">IRS Free File</a>&nbsp;by filing a Form&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcHViL2lycy1wZGYvZjQ4NjgucGRmIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQwMi45MjczMzgzMSJ9.BgUFaWr_PGHneS-0qSUAbz_AGYKgj5hnhfMeNUv1sjY/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">4868, Application for Automatic Extension of Time to File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return</a>.</li><li>Make an electronic payment using Direct Pay, debit card, credit card or digital wallet and indicate the payment is for an extension.</li><li>Mail Form 4868 by the tax deadline.</li><li>Things people should know when requesting a tax-filing extension:</li><li>Tax-filing extension requests are due by the tax deadline date, and it does not give an extension of time to pay the taxes.</li><li>Avoid some penalties by estimating and paying the tax due by the tax deadline.</li><li>Special rules for tax deadlines and automatic tax-filing extensions may apply for taxpayers&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNDksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvbmV3c3Jvb20vZXh0ZW5zaW9uLW9mLWRlYWRsaW5lcy1jb21iYXQtem9uZS1zZXJ2aWNlIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQwMi45MjczMzgzMSJ9.hREJwezKhb170R54-PLG4SnJR3qEI6CEzNbDqIiVWE0/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">serving in a combat zone or qualified hazardous duty areas, living outside the United States</a>, and people living in&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNTAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvbmV3c3Jvb20vdGF4LXJlbGllZi1pbi1kaXNhc3Rlci1zaXR1YXRpb25zIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDQwMi45MjczMzgzMSJ9.lFA_WqOeJGC4k8_wR5cO_t7W22bjSkmo0cwGqfrQBg0/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">certain disaster areas</a>. They may not need to submit a tax-filing extension; however, people should check to see if they qualify before the tax deadline.</li>
 </ul>Use IRS.gov for the quickest and easiest informationTaxpayers can visit IRS.gov 24 hours a day for answers to&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNTEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaGVscC90YXgtbGF3LXF1ZXN0aW9ucyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDA0MDIuOTI3MzM4MzEifQ.ySdtYXyBz5KMWdPcSo8ww8tyM9_1HLr9KPAAbzGfpmc/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">tax questions</a>, more tips and resources by visiting the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxNTIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvaGVscC9sZXQtdXMtaGVscC15b3UiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwNDAyLjkyNzMzODMxIn0.JDlS4SUuHcmw-a2noFfKyHr6fwNmQaVjgNSC2IuPy_8/s/1558083055/br/239976427045-l">Let Us Help You</a>&nbsp;page.

Get ahead of tax deadline; act now to file, pay, request extension

&nbsp;LOGAN COUNTY —The Kansas Department of Transportation has closed Interstate 70 eastbound between Oakley and Hays&nbsp; and westbound lanes between Hays and WaKeeney because of high winds, low visibility and crashes blocking the roadway.

Please use caution and delay travel if possible. <a href="https://kandrive.gov/@-101.43512,39.04521,6?show=roadReports,constructionReports,trafficSpeeds,winterDriving,weatherRadar">Click here to</a> stay updated&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712434842575.png" alt="KanDrive camera image 3:15p.m. Saturday on I-70 at Oakley" />
 <figcaption>KanDrive camera image 3:15p.m. Saturday on I-70 at Oakley</figcaption>
 </figure><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🟢 I-70 OPEN Both directions of I-70 have reopened in NWKS. Use caution if traveling and stay alert for rapidly changing visibilities. Camera views and condition updates available 24/7 at <a href="https://t.co/PMwufxHbcT">https://t.co/PMwufxHbcT</a> and the KanDrive app. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kswx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kswx</a> <a href="https://t.co/7ZiK6EjzJL">pic.twitter.com/7ZiK6EjzJL</a>&mdash; Kansas Department of Transportation (@KDOTHQ) <a href="https://twitter.com/KDOTHQ/status/1776762430724477092?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 7, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>&nbsp;LOGAN COUNTY —The Kansas Department of Transportation has closed Interstate 70 eastbound between Oakley and Hays&nbsp; and westbound lanes between Hays and WaKeeney because of high winds, low visibility and crashes blocking the roadway.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712436888207.png" alt="KanDrive camera image I-70 at Hays 3:55p.m." />
 <figcaption>KanDrive camera image I-70 at Hays 3:55p.m.</figcaption>
 </figure>Please use caution and delay travel if possible. <a href="https://kandrive.gov/@-101.43512,39.04521,6?show=roadReports,constructionReports,trafficSpeeds,winterDriving,weatherRadar">Click here to</a> stay updated&nbsp;

KDOT: I-70 in both directions open again

DOUGLAS COUNTY&nbsp; –Law enforcement authorities investigating alleged domestic violence continue asking the public for help to locate Cole Brings Plenty after an incident Sunday morning at an apartment in Lawrence, according to a media release.

The Lawrence Police drone team worked most of Thursday afternoon south of Lawrence to try to cover a lot of ground quickly - hoping to uncover any leads.&nbsp; Police are following up on all the calls and information coming in.

Police also are in close contact with the family, who are very concerned as the days pass and are collaborating with the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/298304525732132/about/?locale=pt_PT">Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, Two-Spirit, and Trans </a>Chapter of Lawrence.

On Sunday officers responded to reports of a woman screaming for help, but the suspect fled before officers arrived. The investigation identified Brings Plenty and traffic cameras showed him leaving the city immediately after the incident.

Brings Plenty’s car was last seen on 59 Highway headed south out of Lawrence.  He drives the 2005 Ford Explorer bearing Kansas license plate 368PXB. If you have any information on his whereabouts or his vehicle, call 911, LKPD at 785.832.7509, or make an anonymous tip to Crime Stoppers at (785) 843-8477.

&nbsp;If you see Cole Brings Plenty, or his vehicle, call 911 or you can make an anonymous tip to Crime Stoppers of Lawrence and Douglas County at (785)843-8477

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712085646947.png" alt="Plenty-photo Lawrence Police" />
 <figcaption>Plenty-photo Lawrence Police</figcaption>
 </figure>DOUGLAS COUNTY&nbsp; –Law enforcement authorities investigating alleged domestic violence continue asking the public for help to locate Cole Brings Plenty after an incident Sunday morning at an apartment in Lawrence, according to a media release.The Lawrence Police drone team worked most of Thursday afternoon south of Lawrence to try to cover a lot of ground quickly - hoping to uncover any leads.&nbsp; Police are following up on all the calls and information coming in.Police also are in close contact with the family, who are very concerned as the days pass and are collaborating with the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/298304525732132/about/?locale=pt_PT">Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, Two-Spirit, and Trans </a>Chapter of Lawrence.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712085673888.png" alt="Brings Plenty was last known to be driving the 2005 Ford Explorer bearing Kansas license plate 368PXB - photo Lawrence Police" />
 <figcaption>Brings Plenty was last known to be driving the 2005 Ford Explorer bearing Kansas license plate 368PXB - photo Lawrence Police</figcaption>
 </figure>On Sunday officers responded to reports of a woman screaming for help, but the suspect fled before officers arrived. The investigation identified Brings Plenty and traffic cameras showed him leaving the city immediately after the incident.Brings Plenty’s car was last seen on 59 Highway headed south out of Lawrence. He drives the 2005 Ford Explorer bearing Kansas license plate 368PXB. If you have any information on his whereabouts or his vehicle, call 911, LKPD at 785.832.7509, or make an anonymous tip to Crime Stoppers at (785) 843-8477.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1712086415073.png" alt="Cole Hauser, who also starred in "Yellowstone"&nbsp; sent&nbsp; i<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C5QoyFJuLOm/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">nformation about Brings Plenty's disappearance on social media</a>" />
 <figcaption>Cole Hauser, who also starred in "Yellowstone"&nbsp; sent&nbsp; i<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C5QoyFJuLOm/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">nformation about Brings Plenty's disappearance on social media</a></figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;If you see Cole Brings Plenty, or his vehicle, call 911 or you can make an anonymous tip to Crime Stoppers of Lawrence and Douglas County at (785)843-8477

Alleged Kan. domestic violence suspect still hiding from police

DES MOINES (AP) —The stars have aligned in the lottery universe like never before, with two jackpots totaling nearly $2 billion.

With an estimated $1.1 billion Mega Millions prize and an estimated $800 million Powerball jackpot, it's the first time the two nearly national lottery games have each&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/largest-lottery-jackpots-mega-millions-powerball-cb473805c48cd3b74a84d7ee4127450d">grown so large</a>&nbsp;at the same time.

Both massive prizes are the results of months without a big winner, but the larger jackpots entice more people to play the games, increasing the chance that someone, somewhere, will finally hit it rich.

Up first is the Powerball drawing on Monday night, followed by Tuesday night's Mega Millions drawing. If there isn't a winner, the next chance to win Powerball will be Wednesday night and the next drawing for Mega Millions will be Friday night.

Lottery prizes have been larger than the current jackpots, but it's the first time both games have offered top prizes of $800 million or more since the games were created decades ago.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mega-millions-lottery-jackpot-66aa7beb592c6bb408da87d5b677dcab">prizes have grown so big</a>&nbsp;because it has been months since anyone has won a jackpot.

The last Mega Millions jackpot winner was on Dec. 8. Since then, there have been 30 consecutive drawings without a winner of the grand prize. No one has won the Powerball jackpot since Jan. 1, making for 35 consecutive drawings without a big winner of the game, which holds three weekly drawings.

The Mega Millions prize ranks as the 8th largest in U.S. lottery history and is about half the size of the largest jackpot, a $2.04 billion Powerball prize won in November 2022.

“There’s always an air of excitement around the country when the Mega Millions and Powerball jackpots soar simultaneously,” said Gretchen Corbin, president of the Georgia Lottery Corporation and lead director of the Mega Millions Consortium.

It's no mystery why months have passed without a jackpot winner — the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/north-america-lottery-us-news-ap-top-news-ia-state-wire-b5572da1e5d74f6e974bea45c707b5cb">odds of snagging the big prizes</a>&nbsp;are terrible.

For Mega Millions, the odds of matching all six numbers are 1 in 302.6 million. Powerball has slightly better odds of 1 in 292.2 million.

To put those odds in perspective, lottery officials note that after a win when jackpots reset at $20 million, total ticket sales typically cover less than 10% of all the possible number combinations. As jackpots climb to $1 billion or more, sales increase dramatically but still usually cover only about half of the possible combinations.

That means, there is still a good chance no one will hit a jackpot.

Of course, millions or people do win smaller prizes that range from $2 to $2 million. Players of both games have about a 1 in 4 chance of winning some kind of prize.

And remember, regardless of how large jackpots grow, the odds of an individual ticket winning never changes.

As massive as the jackpots are, winners should brace for much smaller payoffs than the figures advertised on billboards.

That's because the state lotteries that run the games promote the total payoff if the prize is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/powerball-jackpot-annuity-vs-cash-0e741f164106c0f4dba89707c5763c99">paid through an annuity</a>&nbsp;over 30 years. That figure is now roughly double the cash prize, which nearly all winners choose because they want to invest the money themselves rather than opt for a defined payout.

For Mega Millions, that means the $1.1 billion jackpot actually would pay out an estimated $525.8 million cash prize. For Powerball, the $800 million annuity prize would mean an estimated $384.8 million cash prize.

Those prizes will be subject to federal taxes, and many states also tax lottery winnings. There also is a chance that multiple players will hit a jackpot, which would then be split between the winners.

Mega Millions is played in 45 states plus Washington, D.C., and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Powerball also is played in those states as well as Washington, D.C., the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico.

The Mega Millions numbers are drawn at a TV studio in Atlanta and Powerball draws numbers at a Florida Lottery studio in Tallahassee.

Profits from the games fund state programs.

DES MOINES (AP) —The stars have aligned in the lottery universe like never before, with two jackpots totaling nearly $2 billion.With an estimated $1.1 billion Mega Millions prize and an estimated $800 million Powerball jackpot, it's the first time the two nearly national lottery games have each&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/largest-lottery-jackpots-mega-millions-powerball-cb473805c48cd3b74a84d7ee4127450d">grown so large</a>&nbsp;at the same time.Both massive prizes are the results of months without a big winner, but the larger jackpots entice more people to play the games, increasing the chance that someone, somewhere, will finally hit it rich.WHEN ARE THE DRAWINGS?Up first is the Powerball drawing on Monday night, followed by Tuesday night's Mega Millions drawing. If there isn't a winner, the next chance to win Powerball will be Wednesday night and the next drawing for Mega Millions will be Friday night.TWO MASSIVE PRIZESLottery prizes have been larger than the current jackpots, but it's the first time both games have offered top prizes of $800 million or more since the games were created decades ago.The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mega-millions-lottery-jackpot-66aa7beb592c6bb408da87d5b677dcab">prizes have grown so big</a>&nbsp;because it has been months since anyone has won a jackpot.The last Mega Millions jackpot winner was on Dec. 8. Since then, there have been 30 consecutive drawings without a winner of the grand prize. No one has won the Powerball jackpot since Jan. 1, making for 35 consecutive drawings without a big winner of the game, which holds three weekly drawings.The Mega Millions prize ranks as the 8th largest in U.S. lottery history and is about half the size of the largest jackpot, a $2.04 billion Powerball prize won in November 2022.“There’s always an air of excitement around the country when the Mega Millions and Powerball jackpots soar simultaneously,” said Gretchen Corbin, president of the Georgia Lottery Corporation and lead director of the Mega Millions Consortium.THE DISMAL ODDSIt's no mystery why months have passed without a jackpot winner — the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/north-america-lottery-us-news-ap-top-news-ia-state-wire-b5572da1e5d74f6e974bea45c707b5cb">odds of snagging the big prizes</a>&nbsp;are terrible.For Mega Millions, the odds of matching all six numbers are 1 in 302.6 million. Powerball has slightly better odds of 1 in 292.2 million.To put those odds in perspective, lottery officials note that after a win when jackpots reset at $20 million, total ticket sales typically cover less than 10% of all the possible number combinations. As jackpots climb to $1 billion or more, sales increase dramatically but still usually cover only about half of the possible combinations.That means, there is still a good chance no one will hit a jackpot.Of course, millions or people do win smaller prizes that range from $2 to $2 million. Players of both games have about a 1 in 4 chance of winning some kind of prize.And remember, regardless of how large jackpots grow, the odds of an individual ticket winning never changes.THE WINNINGSAs massive as the jackpots are, winners should brace for much smaller payoffs than the figures advertised on billboards.That's because the state lotteries that run the games promote the total payoff if the prize is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/powerball-jackpot-annuity-vs-cash-0e741f164106c0f4dba89707c5763c99">paid through an annuity</a>&nbsp;over 30 years. That figure is now roughly double the cash prize, which nearly all winners choose because they want to invest the money themselves rather than opt for a defined payout.For Mega Millions, that means the $1.1 billion jackpot actually would pay out an estimated $525.8 million cash prize. For Powerball, the $800 million annuity prize would mean an estimated $384.8 million cash prize.Those prizes will be subject to federal taxes, and many states also tax lottery winnings. There also is a chance that multiple players will hit a jackpot, which would then be split between the winners.THE GAMESMega Millions is played in 45 states plus Washington, D.C., and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Powerball also is played in those states as well as Washington, D.C., the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico.The Mega Millions numbers are drawn at a TV studio in Atlanta and Powerball draws numbers at a Florida Lottery studio in Tallahassee.Profits from the games fund state programs.___

Nearly $2 billion up for grabs: Mega Millions and Powerball jackpots soar

KANSAS CITY, Mo.&nbsp; –&nbsp;The Shawnee Police Department reported that Harold Nossaman, 91, was located in Kansas City, Missouri. He was transported to an area hospital for evaluation.

The silver alert is now canceled. Thank you for your assistance during the alert.

JOHNSON COUNTY –&nbsp;The Shawnee Police Department requested the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) issue a statewide Silver Alert for a missing Shawnee man.

The whereabouts of 91-year-old Harold Nossaman are unknown, and the public’s assistance is requested to help locate him.

Nossaman is believed to be driving a black 2012 GMC Terrain bearing Kansas tag QHS680.

Nossaman was last seen in Shawnee, Kansas, around 7 p.m. Saturday, March 23. He was supposed to meet a family member for lunch on Sunday, but never arrived. Investigators believe Nossaman’s vehicle traveled near Truman and Woodland in Kansas City, Missouri, around 4:30 p.m. today, March 24.

Nossaman is a white male who is around 5 ft. 11 in tall, and weighs approximately 170 lbs. He is balding, but has gray hair on the sides, and blue eyes.&nbsp; Nossaman has symptoms of dementia.

If you see Harold Nossaman or his vehicle, please call 911 immediately. If you have other information about his whereabouts, please call the Shawnee Police Department at&nbsp;913-631-2150.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1711360990898.png" alt="Nossaman -courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Nossaman -courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo.&nbsp; –&nbsp;The Shawnee Police Department reported that Harold Nossaman, 91, was located in Kansas City, Missouri. He was transported to an area hospital for evaluation.The silver alert is now canceled. Thank you for your assistance during the alert.--------------JOHNSON COUNTY –&nbsp;The Shawnee Police Department requested the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) issue a statewide Silver Alert for a missing Shawnee man.The whereabouts of 91-year-old Harold Nossaman are unknown, and the public’s assistance is requested to help locate him.Nossaman is believed to be driving a black 2012 GMC Terrain bearing Kansas tag QHS680.Nossaman was last seen in Shawnee, Kansas, around 7 p.m. Saturday, March 23. He was supposed to meet a family member for lunch on Sunday, but never arrived. Investigators believe Nossaman’s vehicle traveled near Truman and Woodland in Kansas City, Missouri, around 4:30 p.m. today, March 24.Nossaman is a white male who is around 5 ft. 11 in tall, and weighs approximately 170 lbs. He is balding, but has gray hair on the sides, and blue eyes.&nbsp; Nossaman has symptoms of dementia.If you see Harold Nossaman or his vehicle, please call 911 immediately. If you have other information about his whereabouts, please call the Shawnee Police Department at&nbsp;913-631-2150.

KBI: Silver Alert canceled; Missing Kansas man found in Missouri

The Kansas Department of Transportation expresses its appreciation for employees celebrating state service anniversaries in April. KDOT is proud to acknowledge them for the long-term dedication they have provided to the state of Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1701368603184.png" alt="KDOT" />
 <figcaption>KDOT</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Department of Transportation expresses its appreciation for employees celebrating state service anniversaries in April. KDOT is proud to acknowledge them for the long-term dedication they have provided to the state of Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Those celebrating 35 years:<ul>
 <li>Gordon Fanders, Equipment Mechanic Specialist,&nbsp;Atwood</li>
 </ul>Those celebrating 30 years:<ul>
 <li>Scot Addison, Highway Maintenance Supervisor,&nbsp;Cimarron</li>
 </ul>Those celebrating 25 years:<ul>
 <li>Darren Bailey, Highway Maintenance Supervisor,&nbsp;Hutchinson</li><li>Augie Carrillo Jr., Engineering Tech Supervisor,&nbsp;Parkerfield</li><li>Robert Fuller, Maintenance Bureau Chief,&nbsp;Lawrence</li><li>Gregory Gonzales Jr., Road Design Leader,&nbsp;Topeka</li>
 </ul>Those celebrating 20 years:<ul>
 <li>Damian Hancock, Engineering Technician Senior,&nbsp;Hutchinson&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Jason Van Nice, Bureau Chief,&nbsp;Lawrence</li><li>Ingrid Vandervort, Public Service Executive II,&nbsp;Wakarusa</li>
 </ul>Those celebrating 15 years:<ul>
 <li>Cole Dennis, Equipment Operator,&nbsp;Paola</li><li>Deborah Lewis, Right of Way Property Appraiser II,&nbsp;Ozawkie</li><li>Kathleen Thornton, ADA/EEO/ER Specialist,&nbsp;Topeka&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>Those celebrating 10 years:<ul>
 <li>Paul Brady, Equipment Operator Specialist,&nbsp;Osage City</li><li>Vanessa Lamoreaux, Senior Director (Interim),&nbsp;Topeka</li><li>Sara Peters, Traffic Engineering Bureau Chief,&nbsp;Lawrence</li><li>Matthew Stormer, Innovative Technologies Manager,&nbsp;Topeka</li>
 </ul>

KDOT employees celebrate service anniversaries

WASHINGTON (AP) —A divided Supreme Court on Tuesday lifted a stay on a Texas law that gives police&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigration-texas-2edc0f202156bf792cd531e814bbf2f5#:~:text=Under%20the%20law%2C%20any%20police,law%20could%20potentially%20take%20effect.">broad powers to arrest migrants</a>&nbsp;suspected of crossing the border illegally, while a legal battle over immigration authority plays out.

The Biden administration is suing to strike down the measure, arguing it’s a clear violation of federal authority that would hurt international relations and create chaos in administering immigration law. Texas has argued it has a right to take action over what authorities have called an ongoing crisis at the southern border.

Opponents say the law, known as Senate Bill 4, the most dramatic attempt by a state to police immigration since an Arizona law more than a decade ago, portions of which were struck down by the Supreme Court. Critics have also said the Texas law could lead to civil rights violations and racial profiling.

A federal judge in Texas struck down the law in late February, but the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals quickly stayed that ruling, leading the federal government to appeal to the Supreme Court.

The majority did not write a detailed opinion in the case, as it typical in emergency appeals. But the decision to let the law go into effect drew dissents from liberal justices Ketanji Brown Jackson, Elena Kagan and Sonia Sotomayor.

Sotomayor wrote in a blistering dissent that allowing Texas to enforce the law “invites further chaos and crisis” and “upends the federal-state balance of power that has existed for over a century"

In a separate dissent, Kagan wrote that the type of order entered by the 5th Circuit “should not spell the difference between respecting and revoking long-settled immigration law.”

Justice Amy Coney Barrett, joined by fellow conservative Justice Brett Kavanaugh, suggested in a concurring opinion that her vote in favor of Texas stemmed from the technicalities of the appeals process rather than agreement with the state on the substance of the law.

“So far as I know, this Court has never reviewed the decision of a court of appeals to enter — or not enter — an administrative stay. I would not get into the business. When entered, an administrative stay is supposed to be a short-lived prelude to the main event: a ruling on the motion for a stay pending appeal,” she wrote.

The 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals could potentially block the measure again, and either side can return to the Supreme Court once the 5th Circuit acts.

Texas Gov Greg Abbott said the ruling allows Texas to begin enforcing the law, calling the decision a “positive development” while noting that an appeals court is still weighing whether the law is constitutional. He has previously said Texas has a right to take action on the border crisis.

The Texas Department of Criminal Justice is “prepared to handle any influx in population” spokeswoman Amanda Hernandez said in a statement.

Other Texas officials sounded a cautious note.

“A lot of the local police chiefs here, we don’t believe it will survive a constitutional challenge. It doesn’t look like it’s going to, because a Texas peace officer is not trained. We have no training whatsoever to determine whether an individual is here in this country, legally,” said Sheriff Eddie Guerra of Hidalgo County.

Guerra is also the president of the Southwestern Border Sheriffs’ Coalition representing 31 border counties from Texas to California.

The battle over the Texas immigration law is one of multiple legal disputes between Texas officials and the Biden administration over how far the state can go to patrol the Texas-Mexico border and prevent illegal border crossings.

Several Republican governors have backed Gov. Greg Abbott’s efforts, saying the federal government is not doing enough to enforce existing immigration laws.

The Supreme Court in 2012 struck down key parts of an Arizona law that would have allowed police to arrest people for federal immigration violations, often referred to by opponents as the “show me your papers” bill. The divided high court found then that the impasse in Washington over immigration reform did not justify state intrusion.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683898210525.png" alt="Photo Texas Dept. of Public Safety" />
 <figcaption>Photo Texas Dept. of Public Safety</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) —A divided Supreme Court on Tuesday lifted a stay on a Texas law that gives police&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigration-texas-2edc0f202156bf792cd531e814bbf2f5#:~:text=Under%20the%20law%2C%20any%20police,law%20could%20potentially%20take%20effect.">broad powers to arrest migrants</a>&nbsp;suspected of crossing the border illegally, while a legal battle over immigration authority plays out.The Biden administration is suing to strike down the measure, arguing it’s a clear violation of federal authority that would hurt international relations and create chaos in administering immigration law. Texas has argued it has a right to take action over what authorities have called an ongoing crisis at the southern border.Opponents say the law, known as Senate Bill 4, the most dramatic attempt by a state to police immigration since an Arizona law more than a decade ago, portions of which were struck down by the Supreme Court. Critics have also said the Texas law could lead to civil rights violations and racial profiling.A federal judge in Texas struck down the law in late February, but the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals quickly stayed that ruling, leading the federal government to appeal to the Supreme Court.The majority did not write a detailed opinion in the case, as it typical in emergency appeals. But the decision to let the law go into effect drew dissents from liberal justices Ketanji Brown Jackson, Elena Kagan and Sonia Sotomayor.Sotomayor wrote in a blistering dissent that allowing Texas to enforce the law “invites further chaos and crisis” and “upends the federal-state balance of power that has existed for over a century"In a separate dissent, Kagan wrote that the type of order entered by the 5th Circuit “should not spell the difference between respecting and revoking long-settled immigration law.”Justice Amy Coney Barrett, joined by fellow conservative Justice Brett Kavanaugh, suggested in a concurring opinion that her vote in favor of Texas stemmed from the technicalities of the appeals process rather than agreement with the state on the substance of the law.“So far as I know, this Court has never reviewed the decision of a court of appeals to enter — or not enter — an administrative stay. I would not get into the business. When entered, an administrative stay is supposed to be a short-lived prelude to the main event: a ruling on the motion for a stay pending appeal,” she wrote.The 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals could potentially block the measure again, and either side can return to the Supreme Court once the 5th Circuit acts.Texas Gov Greg Abbott said the ruling allows Texas to begin enforcing the law, calling the decision a “positive development” while noting that an appeals court is still weighing whether the law is constitutional. He has previously said Texas has a right to take action on the border crisis.The Texas Department of Criminal Justice is “prepared to handle any influx in population” spokeswoman Amanda Hernandez said in a statement.Other Texas officials sounded a cautious note.“A lot of the local police chiefs here, we don’t believe it will survive a constitutional challenge. It doesn’t look like it’s going to, because a Texas peace officer is not trained. We have no training whatsoever to determine whether an individual is here in this country, legally,” said Sheriff Eddie Guerra of Hidalgo County.Guerra is also the president of the Southwestern Border Sheriffs’ Coalition representing 31 border counties from Texas to California.The battle over the Texas immigration law is one of multiple legal disputes between Texas officials and the Biden administration over how far the state can go to patrol the Texas-Mexico border and prevent illegal border crossings.Several Republican governors have backed Gov. Greg Abbott’s efforts, saying the federal government is not doing enough to enforce existing immigration laws.The Supreme Court in 2012 struck down key parts of an Arizona law that would have allowed police to arrest people for federal immigration violations, often referred to by opponents as the “show me your papers” bill. The divided high court found then that the impasse in Washington over immigration reform did not justify state intrusion.

Supreme Court will now allow police in Texas to arrest illegal migrants

By LAAH TUCKER Natoma Lions Club

Natoma Lions Club&nbsp;continues to serve&nbsp;with a myriad of projects throughout the year with emphasis on giving sight to the blind around the world, diabetes awareness, disaster relief, and other projects Nationally and locally. Following the tragic death of Wanda Prowse, a Natoma-Paradise-Waldo USD 399 employee, the club members decided to donate proceeds from their annual pancake supper to the Prowse family.&nbsp;&nbsp;American Legion Auxiliary Unit 109 members volunteered to help the Lions members in the Saturday evening project, March 2.&nbsp;&nbsp;Additional volunteers came alongside.

The Natoma community’s acts of kindness in generous donations raised $3,029 for Dan and Colton Prowse during the Natoma Lions Club’s March pancake supper. Local businesses donated $400 to help with the event. Volunteers “flipping” pancakes included Natoma Mayor Rick Dunlap, Lion David Kertz, and Dale Eickhoff, Natoma City Council. The hometown organizations give credence to the Heartland’s heritage of serving others, and the International Lions Club motto: We Serve. For information on the Lions Club contact Lion Shawna Dunlap, club president, 785-885-4478.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710531009144.jpeg" alt="(L-R) Natoma Mayor Rick Dunlap, Lion David Kertz, and Dale Eickhoff, Natoma City Council, “flipped” pancakes during the annual Lions Club pancake community benefit for the Dan Prowse family. (Courtesy&nbsp;Linda Crawford)" />
 <figcaption>(L-R) Natoma Mayor Rick Dunlap, Lion David Kertz, and Dale Eickhoff, Natoma City Council, “flipped” pancakes during the annual Lions Club pancake community benefit for the Dan Prowse family. (Courtesy&nbsp;Linda Crawford)</figcaption>
 </figure>By LAAH TUCKER Natoma Lions ClubNatoma Lions Club&nbsp;continues to serve&nbsp;with a myriad of projects throughout the year with emphasis on giving sight to the blind around the world, diabetes awareness, disaster relief, and other projects Nationally and locally. Following the tragic death of Wanda Prowse, a Natoma-Paradise-Waldo USD 399 employee, the club members decided to donate proceeds from their annual pancake supper to the Prowse family.&nbsp;&nbsp;American Legion Auxiliary Unit 109 members volunteered to help the Lions members in the Saturday evening project, March 2.&nbsp;&nbsp;Additional volunteers came alongside.The Natoma community’s acts of kindness in generous donations raised $3,029 for Dan and Colton Prowse during the Natoma Lions Club’s March pancake supper. Local businesses donated $400 to help with the event. Volunteers “flipping” pancakes included Natoma Mayor Rick Dunlap, Lion David Kertz, and Dale Eickhoff, Natoma City Council. The hometown organizations give credence to the Heartland’s heritage of serving others, and the International Lions Club motto: We Serve. For information on the Lions Club contact Lion Shawna Dunlap, club president, 785-885-4478.

Natoma Lions Club Pancake Supper gives credence to the Heartland’s generosity

SALINA — Two&nbsp;<a href="http://salina.ksu.edu/">Kansas State University Salina</a>&nbsp;clubs, Flight Team and Women's Air Race Team, are planning&nbsp;<a href="https://www.salina.k-state.edu/about/visitor-information/open-house/community.html">Flight Fest</a>&nbsp;during K-State Salina's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.salina.k-state.edu/about/visitor-information/open-house/">open house</a>&nbsp;on April 6.

Flight Fest will feature a Federal Aviation Administration, or FAA, WINGS safety seminar about Controlled Flight into Terrain, or CFIT, on the K-State Ramp at the Salina Regional Airport. The dynamic event will also include an exclusive tour of the campus's aeronautics program, kids activities and a pancake feed, where donations will be accepted to support the student aviation competitive clubs.

The FAA WINGS CFIT seminar is a crucial training for ensuring the safety of the K-State Salina aviation program and its pilots. Terrain-related accidents remain a significant concern in aviation, often resulting in fatalities and substantial aircraft damage. By educating aviators about the causes, warning signs and preventive measures, the seminar enhances the safety awareness and risk mitigation efforts of aviators.

"Attendees will gain valuable knowledge and skills to effectively manage terrain-related challenges, such as terrain awareness, effective communication and adherence to standard operating procedures," said Sydney Oyer, senior in the professional pilot program and member of the Women's Air Race team,&nbsp;Gardner. "This proactive approach not only fosters a culture of safety within our school but also contributes to reducing accident rates and promoting professionalism within the aviation community. Ultimately, the seminar plays a vital role in safeguarding lives, protecting assets and upholding regulatory compliance standards in aviation operations."

Proceeds raised from Flight Fest will support travel, lodging and registration fees for K-State Salina's competitive student aviation teams, Flight Team and Women's Air Race Team. Flight Team competes in regional and national competitions where students compete against and network with their peers from other universities around the country. The Women’s Air Race Team will compete in a national competition called the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.airraceclassic.org/">Air Race Classic</a>&nbsp;from June 18-21. Women pilots from across the United States and around the world fly more than 2,600 statute miles through 11 states.

Those arriving for Flight Fest by air can utilize parking provided by Salina-based&nbsp;<a href="https://www.avflight.com/Network/KSLN">AvFlight</a>. The event is scheduled for Saturday, April 6, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Those interested in the FAA WINGS Program Seminar must&nbsp;<a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe8kv8Kfs3mzmz159wTQiOd4HOY9v_TyCD9KpxA1zb6rZkXQQ/viewform?fce_id=0a6d173c-efac-46c1-bd15-9eddac21ce27">register</a>&nbsp;by March 26.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/5/1653312965950.png" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>SALINA — Two&nbsp;<a href="http://salina.ksu.edu/">Kansas State University Salina</a>&nbsp;clubs, Flight Team and Women's Air Race Team, are planning&nbsp;<a href="https://www.salina.k-state.edu/about/visitor-information/open-house/community.html">Flight Fest</a>&nbsp;during K-State Salina's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.salina.k-state.edu/about/visitor-information/open-house/">open house</a>&nbsp;on April 6.Flight Fest will feature a Federal Aviation Administration, or FAA, WINGS safety seminar about Controlled Flight into Terrain, or CFIT, on the K-State Ramp at the Salina Regional Airport. The dynamic event will also include an exclusive tour of the campus's aeronautics program, kids activities and a pancake feed, where donations will be accepted to support the student aviation competitive clubs.The FAA WINGS CFIT seminar is a crucial training for ensuring the safety of the K-State Salina aviation program and its pilots. Terrain-related accidents remain a significant concern in aviation, often resulting in fatalities and substantial aircraft damage. By educating aviators about the causes, warning signs and preventive measures, the seminar enhances the safety awareness and risk mitigation efforts of aviators."Attendees will gain valuable knowledge and skills to effectively manage terrain-related challenges, such as terrain awareness, effective communication and adherence to standard operating procedures," said Sydney Oyer, senior in the professional pilot program and member of the Women's Air Race team,&nbsp;Gardner. "This proactive approach not only fosters a culture of safety within our school but also contributes to reducing accident rates and promoting professionalism within the aviation community. Ultimately, the seminar plays a vital role in safeguarding lives, protecting assets and upholding regulatory compliance standards in aviation operations."Proceeds raised from Flight Fest will support travel, lodging and registration fees for K-State Salina's competitive student aviation teams, Flight Team and Women's Air Race Team. Flight Team competes in regional and national competitions where students compete against and network with their peers from other universities around the country. The Women’s Air Race Team will compete in a national competition called the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.airraceclassic.org/">Air Race Classic</a>&nbsp;from June 18-21. Women pilots from across the United States and around the world fly more than 2,600 statute miles through 11 states.Those arriving for Flight Fest by air can utilize parking provided by Salina-based&nbsp;<a href="https://www.avflight.com/Network/KSLN">AvFlight</a>. The event is scheduled for Saturday, April 6, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Those interested in the FAA WINGS Program Seminar must&nbsp;<a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe8kv8Kfs3mzmz159wTQiOd4HOY9v_TyCD9KpxA1zb6rZkXQQ/viewform?fce_id=0a6d173c-efac-46c1-bd15-9eddac21ce27">register</a>&nbsp;by March 26.

K-State Salina aviation students to host FAA WINGS Program Seminar during campus's open house

FRANKLIN COUNTY –&nbsp;The Ottawa Police&nbsp;reported that 74-year-old Linda Duncan was located and is now safe.&nbsp;The&nbsp;Statewide Silver Alert is now canceled.&nbsp;

FRANKLIN COUNTY –&nbsp;The Ottawa Police Department requested the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) issue a statewide Silver Alert for a missing Ottawa woman.&nbsp;

The Ottawa Police Department is asking for help locating&nbsp; missing 74-year-old Linda K. Duncan, from Ottawa, Kansas. Linda is 5-foot-2, 145 pounds, with white hair and blue eyes.

 She may be driving a Red/Maroon, 2007, Kia, Rondo, displaying Kansas License Plate 040-GSY. The vehicle is registered to an address in Ottawa, Kansas.

The vehicle was last seen traveling near the intersection of Webb and Kellogg Streets in Wichita, Kansas on March 7, 2024, at 4:08 p.m. It is not known why Linda would be traveling in the Wichita area.

The department asks anyone with information to contact Ottawa Police Department at 785-242-1700 (Police Dispatch) or immediately call 911. Anyone with tips or information can email the department at&nbsp;opdtips@ottawaks.gov.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709983374536.png" alt="Linda Duncan courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Linda Duncan courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>FRANKLIN COUNTY –&nbsp;The Ottawa Police&nbsp;reported that 74-year-old Linda Duncan was located and is now safe.&nbsp;The&nbsp;Statewide Silver Alert is now canceled.&nbsp;--------------FRANKLIN COUNTY –&nbsp;The Ottawa Police Department requested the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) issue a statewide Silver Alert for a missing Ottawa woman.&nbsp;The Ottawa Police Department is asking for help locating&nbsp; missing 74-year-old Linda K. Duncan, from Ottawa, Kansas. Linda is 5-foot-2, 145 pounds, with white hair and blue eyes. She may be driving a Red/Maroon, 2007, Kia, Rondo, displaying Kansas License Plate 040-GSY. The vehicle is registered to an address in Ottawa, Kansas.The vehicle was last seen traveling near the intersection of Webb and Kellogg Streets in Wichita, Kansas on March 7, 2024, at 4:08 p.m. It is not known why Linda would be traveling in the Wichita area.The department asks anyone with information to contact Ottawa Police Department at 785-242-1700 (Police Dispatch) or immediately call 911. Anyone with tips or information can email the department at&nbsp;opdtips@ottawaks.gov.

KBI: Silver Alert canceled, missing Kansas woman found

By JULIA DEBES Kansas Wheat

Sharing the wonder and inner workings of the wheat industry from the farm to the miller to the baker to the end consumer is one of the goals of the Wheat Foods Council, which recently held its annual board meeting in San Antonio, Texas, in February 2024. Building those connections along the wheat value chain is a major role of the organization, according to Kansas wheat farmer Ron Suppes, who is chairing the Wheat Foods Council this year.&nbsp;

“One of the aspects of the Wheat Foods Council I really enjoy is the ability to talk to different industries connected with wheat,” Suppes said. “It’s not just wheat farmers. This is millers and bakers who are also members, so you’re able to get a really good perspective of what’s going on out there in the industry. Plus, I’m able to interact with them and spread the word about farming and what’s involved.”&nbsp;

Suppes assumed his role as WFC chairman at the organization’s summer board meeting in Denver in June 2023. He and his wife Shirley, along with son Shayne, farm roughly 12,000 acres in west central Kansas. Wheat and sorghum make up their primary crops. Suppes has served as a Kansas wheat commissioner since 2003, serving as chairman in 2013-2014, and serves as chairman of the Kansas Wheat Commission Research Foundation.&nbsp;

Suppes has also traveled extensively overseas with U.S. Wheat Associates as a member of the USW Board of Directors, having served as chairman of the wheat industry’s export market development arm from 2007-2008.&nbsp;

Growers like Suppes are an important voice in the Wheat Foods Council, which was established by wheat producers in 1972 to promote the entire category of wheat-based foods, including baked goods, cereal, crackers, pasta, sweet goods and tortillas. Since then, the organization has established itself as a leading source of science-based information on wheat and grain foods nutrition.&nbsp;

At the council’s meeting in February, SRG Marketing Firm, a marketing agency representing the Wheat Foods Council, reviewed the first half of the 2023-2024 marketing program coined “Research, Recipes, Resources.” In the first seven months of this work, the firm reported progress from an updated logo for the Wheat Foods Council, reports on declining search engine results for low-carb and gluten-free diets and use of information from the council by the Oregon Public Broadcasting Service. Recipes like breakfast pitas and blueberry-maple granola are gaining popularity, especially in fitness apps and online subscriptions. The firm also reported on the success of messages on the wonders of wheat, crowd-pleasing taste, sustained energy and plant-powered nutrition.&nbsp;

Close to Suppes’ heart, the firm is also working on messaging related to the concept that consumers trust growers and trust family farms. The goal of the campaign is to tie producers to consumers.&nbsp;

Next June, the organization’s summer meeting will come to Manhattan, Kansas. Suppes explained the plan is to highlight the Kansas Wheat Innovation Center, the Hal Ross Flour Mill and the IGP Institute, along with some of the brightest minds in the global wheat industry. Then, he’ll pass the baton to Mark Hotze, Vice President, North America of Corbion, who currently serves as the council’s vice chair.&nbsp;

Learn more about the Wheat Foods Council at&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001m2KgHO2k1Zp8EJLxcAOXGq9z1ny9qdO8cFPmFEw-VXCVmzg2STgQRsgFt7wDYZ6tR4GI0UBAuDqw7_j3tu5WE--DOP1FstKEqR9pGtQSOncVZvCmWvWPHQOY-WZ01XuryxsgBzCt4y--LE0JWbYk_KE2L6wI7X1Q&amp;c=_kZ46Ig3aNTI_CxVtp1gsEwZ1sr2qrXY6ztv1MnZhys4V68yPZzy8A==&amp;ch=3DYYl3u_5lX1cIPk0Z2H0cL3yJSg6XG4JzdvhLdcpVqWBHspCIbGmg==">https://www.wheatfoods.org/</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1628192917024.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JULIA DEBES Kansas WheatSharing the wonder and inner workings of the wheat industry from the farm to the miller to the baker to the end consumer is one of the goals of the Wheat Foods Council, which recently held its annual board meeting in San Antonio, Texas, in February 2024. Building those connections along the wheat value chain is a major role of the organization, according to Kansas wheat farmer Ron Suppes, who is chairing the Wheat Foods Council this year.&nbsp;“One of the aspects of the Wheat Foods Council I really enjoy is the ability to talk to different industries connected with wheat,” Suppes said. “It’s not just wheat farmers. This is millers and bakers who are also members, so you’re able to get a really good perspective of what’s going on out there in the industry. Plus, I’m able to interact with them and spread the word about farming and what’s involved.”&nbsp;Suppes assumed his role as WFC chairman at the organization’s summer board meeting in Denver in June 2023. He and his wife Shirley, along with son Shayne, farm roughly 12,000 acres in west central Kansas. Wheat and sorghum make up their primary crops. Suppes has served as a Kansas wheat commissioner since 2003, serving as chairman in 2013-2014, and serves as chairman of the Kansas Wheat Commission Research Foundation.&nbsp;Suppes has also traveled extensively overseas with U.S. Wheat Associates as a member of the USW Board of Directors, having served as chairman of the wheat industry’s export market development arm from 2007-2008.&nbsp;Growers like Suppes are an important voice in the Wheat Foods Council, which was established by wheat producers in 1972 to promote the entire category of wheat-based foods, including baked goods, cereal, crackers, pasta, sweet goods and tortillas. Since then, the organization has established itself as a leading source of science-based information on wheat and grain foods nutrition.&nbsp;At the council’s meeting in February, SRG Marketing Firm, a marketing agency representing the Wheat Foods Council, reviewed the first half of the 2023-2024 marketing program coined “Research, Recipes, Resources.” In the first seven months of this work, the firm reported progress from an updated logo for the Wheat Foods Council, reports on declining search engine results for low-carb and gluten-free diets and use of information from the council by the Oregon Public Broadcasting Service. Recipes like breakfast pitas and blueberry-maple granola are gaining popularity, especially in fitness apps and online subscriptions. The firm also reported on the success of messages on the wonders of wheat, crowd-pleasing taste, sustained energy and plant-powered nutrition.&nbsp;Close to Suppes’ heart, the firm is also working on messaging related to the concept that consumers trust growers and trust family farms. The goal of the campaign is to tie producers to consumers.&nbsp;Next June, the organization’s summer meeting will come to Manhattan, Kansas. Suppes explained the plan is to highlight the Kansas Wheat Innovation Center, the Hal Ross Flour Mill and the IGP Institute, along with some of the brightest minds in the global wheat industry. Then, he’ll pass the baton to Mark Hotze, Vice President, North America of Corbion, who currently serves as the council’s vice chair.&nbsp;Learn more about the Wheat Foods Council at&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001m2KgHO2k1Zp8EJLxcAOXGq9z1ny9qdO8cFPmFEw-VXCVmzg2STgQRsgFt7wDYZ6tR4GI0UBAuDqw7_j3tu5WE--DOP1FstKEqR9pGtQSOncVZvCmWvWPHQOY-WZ01XuryxsgBzCt4y--LE0JWbYk_KE2L6wI7X1Q&amp;c=_kZ46Ig3aNTI_CxVtp1gsEwZ1sr2qrXY6ztv1MnZhys4V68yPZzy8A==&amp;ch=3DYYl3u_5lX1cIPk0Z2H0cL3yJSg6XG4JzdvhLdcpVqWBHspCIbGmg==">https://www.wheatfoods.org/</a>.

Wheat Foods Council brings the value chain together from farmer to consumer during winter board meeting

DOUGLAS COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a homicide and asking the public’s assistance in locating 21-year-old Dawson Edward Paine.

He is suspected in a deadly shooting Tuesday night in the 2900 block of Crestline Drive, according to a media release from Lawrence Police.

Just after 10:30p.m. Tuesday, police were dispatched to a residence where Paine allegedly shot 18-year-old&nbsp; Davin Gregory Kerr of Lawrence.

After the shooting, Paine left the area prior to the arrival of officers. Kerr was transported by ambulance to a Kansas City area trauma center where he was later pronounced dead.

Police ask that anyone who may have information on the whereabouts of Dawson Paine call 911. He should be considered armed and dangerous, and no one should try approach or contact him other than law enforcement.&nbsp;

Contact police anonymously by calling Crime Stoppers of Lawrence and Douglas County at (785)843-TIPS (8477).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709737558547.png" alt="Paine photo Lawrence Police" />
 <figcaption>Paine photo Lawrence Police</figcaption>
 </figure>DOUGLAS COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a homicide and asking the public’s assistance in locating 21-year-old Dawson Edward Paine.He is suspected in a deadly shooting Tuesday night in the 2900 block of Crestline Drive, according to a media release from Lawrence Police.Just after 10:30p.m. Tuesday, police were dispatched to a residence where Paine allegedly shot 18-year-old&nbsp; Davin Gregory Kerr of Lawrence.After the shooting, Paine left the area prior to the arrival of officers. Kerr was transported by ambulance to a Kansas City area trauma center where he was later pronounced dead.Police ask that anyone who may have information on the whereabouts of Dawson Paine call 911. He should be considered armed and dangerous, and no one should try approach or contact him other than law enforcement.&nbsp;Contact police anonymously by calling Crime Stoppers of Lawrence and Douglas County at (785)843-TIPS (8477).

Search continues for armed, dangerous Kan. murder suspect

WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. will begin airdropping emergency humanitarian assistance into Gaza, President Joe Biden said Friday, a day after more than 100 Palestinians were killed during a chaotic encounter with Israeli troops.

The president&nbsp;<a href="https://pronto.associatedpress.com/web/search/text?all=false&amp;sourceType=allSources&amp;dateRangeType=live&amp;mediaSortType=newest&amp;pagesize=10&amp;viewType=conversation&amp;keyword=wire:dsa%20AND%20Gaza&amp;storyType=all&amp;mediatype=text&amp;pagenumber=0">announced the move</a>&nbsp;after at least 115 Palestinians were killed and more than 750 others were injured, according to Gaza’s Hamas-run health ministry, on Thursday when witnesses said Israeli troops opened fire as huge crowds raced to pull goods off an aid convoy.

Biden said the airdrops&nbsp;<a href="https://pronto.associatedpress.com/web/search/text?all=false&amp;sourceType=allSources&amp;dateRangeType=live&amp;mediaSortType=newest&amp;pagesize=10&amp;viewType=conversation&amp;keyword=wire:dsa%20AND%20Gaza&amp;storyType=all&amp;mediatype=text&amp;pagenumber=0">would begin soon</a>&nbsp;and that the United States was looking into additional ways to facilitate getting badly needed aid into&nbsp;<a href="https://pronto.associatedpress.com/web/search/text?all=false&amp;sourceType=allSources&amp;dateRangeType=live&amp;mediaSortType=newest&amp;pagesize=10&amp;viewType=conversation&amp;keyword=wire:dsa%20AND%20Gaza&amp;storyType=all&amp;mediatype=text&amp;pagenumber=0">the war-battered territory</a>&nbsp;to ease the suffering of Palestinians.

“In the coming days we’re going to join with our friends in Jordan and others who are providing airdrops of additional food and supplies” and will "seek to open up other avenues in, including possibly a marine corridor,” Biden said.

The president twice referred to airdrops to help Ukraine, but White House officials clarified that he was referring to Gaza.

Israel said many of the dead were trampled in a stampede linked to the chaos and that its troops fired at some in the crowd who they believed moved toward them in a threatening way. The Israeli government has said it is investigating the matter.

The head of a Gaza City hospital that treated some of those wounded said Friday that&nbsp;<a href="https://pronto.associatedpress.com/web/search/text?all=false&amp;sourceType=allSources&amp;dateRangeType=live&amp;mediaSortType=newest&amp;pagesize=10&amp;viewType=conversation&amp;keyword=wire:dsa%20AND%20Gaza&amp;storyType=all&amp;mediatype=text&amp;pagenumber=0">more than 80% had been struck by gunfire.</a>

Biden made his announcement while hosting Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni at the White house.

“Aid flowing to Gaza is nowhere nearly enough," Biden said. "Now, it’s nowhere nearly enough. Innocent lives are on the line and children’s lives are on the line. We won’t stand by until we get more aid in there. We should be getting hundreds of trucks in, not just several.”

The White House, State Department and Pentagon had been weighing the merits of U.S. military airdrops of assistance for several months, but had held off due to concerns that the method is inefficient, has no way of ensuring the aid gets to civilians in need and cannot make up for overland aid deliveries.

Administration officials said their preference was to further increase overland aid deliveries through the Rafah and Kerem Shalom border points and to try to get Israel to open the Erez Crossing into northern Gaza.

The incident on Thursday appeared to tip the balance and push Biden to approve airdrops. White House national security spokesman John Kirby said that airdrops are difficult operations, but the acute need for aid in Gaza informed the president's decision.

He stressed that ground routes will be continued to be used to get aid into Gaza, and that the airdrops are a supplemental effort.

“It’s not the kind of thing you want to do in a heartbeat. you want to think it through carefully," Kirby said. He added, “There’s few military operations that are more complicated than humanitarian assistance airdrops”

Pressure has been mounting for Biden to move more aggressively to ease Palestinian suffering, including from lawmakers of Biden’s Democratic Party. Even before Thursday’s deaths, Sen. Jack Reed, chairman of the Senate’s Armed Services Committee, wrote Biden this week to urge that the administration deploy a military hospital ship and support units to help treat Gaza’s wounded and open a sea route to Gaza for delivery of humanitarian aid.

“Yesterday’s event, I think, underscores the need to find more creative ways of getting assistance in faster and at greater scale,” Kirby said.

Egypt, France, Jordan, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates have already used airdrops to get aid into Gaza since the conflict started in October.

Biden in his visit with Meloni at the White House also sought to assure European leaders that the U.S. remains behind Ukraine even as he's been unable to win passage of a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ukraine-aid-congress-senate-china-d7b4846de76a1dfe5d2207b7eb6eeead">supplemental foreign aid package</a>&nbsp;that includes $60 billion for Ukraine in addition to $35 billion for Israel and Taiwan. The legislation has passed the Senate, but Republican Speaker Mike Johnson has refused to put it up for a vote in the House.

Ahead of Meloni's visit, White House officials said they don't have good answers for allies about finding an end to the impasse with House Republicans and reopening the American spigot of aid to Kyiv that's badly needed as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine">Ukraine tries to fend off Russia's</a>&nbsp;invasion.

Biden, along with top Democrats and Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, strongly&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-johnson-israel-ukraine-shutdown-government-dc6d39b2a652130c6e3021394c1a3ee3">urged</a>&nbsp;Johnson during a White House meeting this week to take up the foreign aid package, but Johnson responded by saying that Congress “must take care of America’s needs first.”

The leaders also discussed efforts by the U.S., Egypt and Qatar to broker an extended cease-fire between Israel and Hamas, Italy's priorities for a G7 presidency, migrant flows into Italy from North Africa, and their countries' China policies.

Biden said earlier this week that a cease-fire deal could be reached by Monday, before tempering his optimism after Thursday's incident. But on Friday, Biden said he still held hope that a deal can be struck, possibly before Muslims around the globe begin observing the holy month of Ramadan that is expected to begin on March 10.

“I'm still hoping so,” Biden told reporters on Friday evening before departing the White House for the presidential retreat at Camp David, Md. "We’re still working real hard at it. We’re not there yet.”

Meloni said solving the humanitarian crisis in Gaza was Italy's top priority.

“We need to coordinate our actions to avoid an escalation, and this regard we fully support the U.S. mediation efforts,” she said.

WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. will begin airdropping emergency humanitarian assistance into Gaza, President Joe Biden said Friday, a day after more than 100 Palestinians were killed during a chaotic encounter with Israeli troops.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President Biden: &quot;We&#39;re trying to work out a deal between Israel and Hamas the hostages being returned and immediate ceasefire in Gaza for at least the next six weeks.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/caW7nQFKov">pic.twitter.com/caW7nQFKov</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1763659658089083168?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 1, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The president&nbsp;<a href="https://pronto.associatedpress.com/web/search/text?all=false&amp;sourceType=allSources&amp;dateRangeType=live&amp;mediaSortType=newest&amp;pagesize=10&amp;viewType=conversation&amp;keyword=wire:dsa%20AND%20Gaza&amp;storyType=all&amp;mediatype=text&amp;pagenumber=0">announced the move</a>&nbsp;after at least 115 Palestinians were killed and more than 750 others were injured, according to Gaza’s Hamas-run health ministry, on Thursday when witnesses said Israeli troops opened fire as huge crowds raced to pull goods off an aid convoy.Biden said the airdrops&nbsp;<a href="https://pronto.associatedpress.com/web/search/text?all=false&amp;sourceType=allSources&amp;dateRangeType=live&amp;mediaSortType=newest&amp;pagesize=10&amp;viewType=conversation&amp;keyword=wire:dsa%20AND%20Gaza&amp;storyType=all&amp;mediatype=text&amp;pagenumber=0">would begin soon</a>&nbsp;and that the United States was looking into additional ways to facilitate getting badly needed aid into&nbsp;<a href="https://pronto.associatedpress.com/web/search/text?all=false&amp;sourceType=allSources&amp;dateRangeType=live&amp;mediaSortType=newest&amp;pagesize=10&amp;viewType=conversation&amp;keyword=wire:dsa%20AND%20Gaza&amp;storyType=all&amp;mediatype=text&amp;pagenumber=0">the war-battered territory</a>&nbsp;to ease the suffering of Palestinians.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">In the coming days, the United States will carry out airdrops of aid to Gaza, redouble our efforts to open a maritime corridor, and expand deliveries by land. The aid flowing into Gaza is nowhere near enough. We all need to do more. And the United States will do more.&mdash; President Biden (@POTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS/status/1763702007469085066?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 1, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>“In the coming days we’re going to join with our friends in Jordan and others who are providing airdrops of additional food and supplies” and will "seek to open up other avenues in, including possibly a marine corridor,” Biden said.The president twice referred to airdrops to help Ukraine, but White House officials clarified that he was referring to Gaza.Israel said many of the dead were trampled in a stampede linked to the chaos and that its troops fired at some in the crowd who they believed moved toward them in a threatening way. The Israeli government has said it is investigating the matter.The head of a Gaza City hospital that treated some of those wounded said Friday that&nbsp;<a href="https://pronto.associatedpress.com/web/search/text?all=false&amp;sourceType=allSources&amp;dateRangeType=live&amp;mediaSortType=newest&amp;pagesize=10&amp;viewType=conversation&amp;keyword=wire:dsa%20AND%20Gaza&amp;storyType=all&amp;mediatype=text&amp;pagenumber=0">more than 80% had been struck by gunfire.</a>Biden made his announcement while hosting Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni at the White house.“Aid flowing to Gaza is nowhere nearly enough," Biden said. "Now, it’s nowhere nearly enough. Innocent lives are on the line and children’s lives are on the line. We won’t stand by until we get more aid in there. We should be getting hundreds of trucks in, not just several.”The White House, State Department and Pentagon had been weighing the merits of U.S. military airdrops of assistance for several months, but had held off due to concerns that the method is inefficient, has no way of ensuring the aid gets to civilians in need and cannot make up for overland aid deliveries.Administration officials said their preference was to further increase overland aid deliveries through the Rafah and Kerem Shalom border points and to try to get Israel to open the Erez Crossing into northern Gaza.The incident on Thursday appeared to tip the balance and push Biden to approve airdrops. White House national security spokesman John Kirby said that airdrops are difficult operations, but the acute need for aid in Gaza informed the president's decision.He stressed that ground routes will be continued to be used to get aid into Gaza, and that the airdrops are a supplemental effort.“It’s not the kind of thing you want to do in a heartbeat. you want to think it through carefully," Kirby said. He added, “There’s few military operations that are more complicated than humanitarian assistance airdrops”Pressure has been mounting for Biden to move more aggressively to ease Palestinian suffering, including from lawmakers of Biden’s Democratic Party. Even before Thursday’s deaths, Sen. Jack Reed, chairman of the Senate’s Armed Services Committee, wrote Biden this week to urge that the administration deploy a military hospital ship and support units to help treat Gaza’s wounded and open a sea route to Gaza for delivery of humanitarian aid.“Yesterday’s event, I think, underscores the need to find more creative ways of getting assistance in faster and at greater scale,” Kirby said.Egypt, France, Jordan, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates have already used airdrops to get aid into Gaza since the conflict started in October.Biden in his visit with Meloni at the White House also sought to assure European leaders that the U.S. remains behind Ukraine even as he's been unable to win passage of a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ukraine-aid-congress-senate-china-d7b4846de76a1dfe5d2207b7eb6eeead">supplemental foreign aid package</a>&nbsp;that includes $60 billion for Ukraine in addition to $35 billion for Israel and Taiwan. The legislation has passed the Senate, but Republican Speaker Mike Johnson has refused to put it up for a vote in the House.Ahead of Meloni's visit, White House officials said they don't have good answers for allies about finding an end to the impasse with House Republicans and reopening the American spigot of aid to Kyiv that's badly needed as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine">Ukraine tries to fend off Russia's</a>&nbsp;invasion.Biden, along with top Democrats and Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, strongly&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-johnson-israel-ukraine-shutdown-government-dc6d39b2a652130c6e3021394c1a3ee3">urged</a>&nbsp;Johnson during a White House meeting this week to take up the foreign aid package, but Johnson responded by saying that Congress “must take care of America’s needs first.”The leaders also discussed efforts by the U.S., Egypt and Qatar to broker an extended cease-fire between Israel and Hamas, Italy's priorities for a G7 presidency, migrant flows into Italy from North Africa, and their countries' China policies.Biden said earlier this week that a cease-fire deal could be reached by Monday, before tempering his optimism after Thursday's incident. But on Friday, Biden said he still held hope that a deal can be struck, possibly before Muslims around the globe begin observing the holy month of Ramadan that is expected to begin on March 10.“I'm still hoping so,” Biden told reporters on Friday evening before departing the White House for the presidential retreat at Camp David, Md. "We’re still working real hard at it. We’re not there yet.”Meloni said solving the humanitarian crisis in Gaza was Italy's top priority.“We need to coordinate our actions to avoid an escalation, and this regard we fully support the U.S. mediation efforts,” she said.___

🎥Biden: US military to airdrop food and supplies into Gaza

If a taxpayer sold goods or services in 2023 and received payments through certain payment apps or online marketplaces or accepted payment cards, they could have received a third party reporting document&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZm9ybXMtcHVicy9hYm91dC1mb3JtLTEwOTktayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAzMDEuOTEwOTk2MDEifQ.A51zkyBxk0lMd5h6Ht9DoyCKCc0Cr9t5os06PajMQZ8/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">Form 1099-K, Payment Card and Third Party Network Transactions</a>.

Following feedback from taxpayers, tax professionals and payment processors, and to reduce taxpayer confusion, the IRS announced&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvbmV3c3Jvb20vaXJzLWFubm91bmNlcy1kZWxheS1pbi1mb3JtLTEwOTktay1yZXBvcnRpbmctdGhyZXNob2xkLWZvci10aGlyZC1wYXJ0eS1wbGF0Zm9ybS1wYXltZW50cy1pbi0yMDIzLXBsYW5zLWZvci1hLXRocmVzaG9sZC1vZi01MDAwLWZvci0yMDI0LXRvLXBoYXNlLWluLWltcGxlbWVudGF0aW9uIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDMwMS45MTA5OTYwMSJ9.tjYFs1E7pGGfXTGpkndsSzo8DjMRi5ZLDPCAccqqlCo/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">Notice 2023-74</a>, which delayed the new federal law $600 reporting threshold for tax year 2023 on&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZm9ybXMtcHVicy9hYm91dC1mb3JtLTEwOTktayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAzMDEuOTEwOTk2MDEifQ.oUG_OIf39uxMZgBicF98z6JsuwQIyYjEqaDoNlyqx0M/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">Form 1099-K, Payment Card and Third Party Network Transactions</a>. The previous reporting thresholds remained in place for 2023, which are more than $20,000 in payments and over 200 transactions. Taxpayers could have still received forms below the threshold.

It’s important to know that regardless of if a taxpayer received a Form 1099-K or not,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvbmV3c3Jvb20vdGF4LXRpbWUtZ3VpZGUtaXJzLXJlbWluZGVyLXRvLXJlcG9ydC1hbGwtaW5jb21lLWdpZy1lY29ub215LWFuZC1zZXJ2aWNlLWluZHVzdHJ5LWRpZ2l0YWwtb3ItZm9yZWlnbi1hc3NldHMtYW5kLXNvdXJjZXMiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMzAxLjkxMDk5NjAxIn0.BKcKZSSmmLf04wBwxe95ds4LhbgOCA79vzcRZhs2VdM/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">they must report their income</a>. This includes payments they receive in cash, property, goods, digital assets or foreign sources or assets.

The Form 1099-K should not report personal payments like gifts and reimbursements.

It’s important to understand&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvYnVzaW5lc3Nlcy91bmRlcnN0YW5kaW5nLXlvdXItZm9ybS0xMDk5LWsiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMzAxLjkxMDk5NjAxIn0.5tAB1mFMj3NZsM0aBhB2iw2GpzG-S1zNVOWGPL3RCeg/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">why an individual received a Form 1099-K</a>. Taxpayers can then use it with their other tax records when it’s time to file their return. The form provides the gross amount of payment card/third party network transactions and may include a combination of different kinds of total payments received.

It's important to note, just because a payment is reported on a Form 1099-K does not mean it’s taxable.

Taxpayers should review the form or forms, determine if the amount is correct, and determine any deductible expenses associated with the payment they may be able to claim when they file their taxes.

If an individual sold items at a loss, which means they paid more for the items than for what they sold them, there is not a tax liability. They’ll be able to zero out the payment on their tax return by reporting both the payment and an offsetting adjustment on a&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcHViL2lycy1wZGYvZjEwNDBzMS5wZGYiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMzAxLjkxMDk5NjAxIn0.RDXcbE65C3Mc181G2sUnfFCpvRP69h83YXH2PMZl5YY/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">Form 1040, Schedule 1</a>. This will ensure if they received these forms, they don't have to pay taxes they don't owe.

If an individual sold items at a gain, which means they paid less than for what they sold it, they will have to report that gain as income, and it's taxable.

See IRS.gov&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvYnVzaW5lc3Nlcy93aGF0LXRvLWRvLXdpdGgtZm9ybS0xMDk5LWsiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMzAxLjkxMDk5NjAxIn0.YVftzmUtfO9ofijaGc6dWLXhBsfLAiGnFgNxlU7dpbA/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">What to do with Form 1099-K</a>&nbsp;for specific instruction on how to report personal item sales.

What to do with a Form 1099-K received in error

People may get a Form 1099-K when they shouldn't have if it:

If the payee Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) or gross payment amount is incorrect taxpayers should request a corrected form from the issuer.

Don't wait to file taxes. To file a tax return, take these steps:

See&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvYnVzaW5lc3Nlcy93aGF0LXRvLWRvLXdpdGgtZm9ybS0xMDk5LWsiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMzAxLjkxMDk5NjAxIn0.TrP-blq5a2Vt3kfVPW4mlDhFlKHHi1azDXJCRKvS5Z0/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">What to do with Form 1099-K</a>&nbsp;for more information on how to report an incorrect Form 1099-K.

See&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvYnVzaW5lc3Nlcy91bmRlcnN0YW5kaW5nLXlvdXItZm9ybS0xMDk5LWsiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMzAxLjkxMDk5NjAxIn0.nIYdvCcNQbeNS2PFoHvck5Sgle4JXyxH3QTDgj032n0/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">Understanding Your Form 1099-K</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvbmV3c3Jvb20vZm9ybS0xMDk5LWstZmFxcyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAzMDEuOTEwOTk2MDEifQ.m1EKHm7QpmPHvcyRTffZFGPbl73S1PcHmn5Y_vIFo60/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">Form 1099-K FAQs</a>&nbsp;for more information.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599869881583.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Internal Revenue ServiceIf a taxpayer sold goods or services in 2023 and received payments through certain payment apps or online marketplaces or accepted payment cards, they could have received a third party reporting document&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZm9ybXMtcHVicy9hYm91dC1mb3JtLTEwOTktayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAzMDEuOTEwOTk2MDEifQ.A51zkyBxk0lMd5h6Ht9DoyCKCc0Cr9t5os06PajMQZ8/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">Form 1099-K, Payment Card and Third Party Network Transactions</a>.Following feedback from taxpayers, tax professionals and payment processors, and to reduce taxpayer confusion, the IRS announced&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvbmV3c3Jvb20vaXJzLWFubm91bmNlcy1kZWxheS1pbi1mb3JtLTEwOTktay1yZXBvcnRpbmctdGhyZXNob2xkLWZvci10aGlyZC1wYXJ0eS1wbGF0Zm9ybS1wYXltZW50cy1pbi0yMDIzLXBsYW5zLWZvci1hLXRocmVzaG9sZC1vZi01MDAwLWZvci0yMDI0LXRvLXBoYXNlLWluLWltcGxlbWVudGF0aW9uIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDMwMS45MTA5OTYwMSJ9.tjYFs1E7pGGfXTGpkndsSzo8DjMRi5ZLDPCAccqqlCo/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">Notice 2023-74</a>, which delayed the new federal law $600 reporting threshold for tax year 2023 on&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvZm9ybXMtcHVicy9hYm91dC1mb3JtLTEwOTktayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAzMDEuOTEwOTk2MDEifQ.oUG_OIf39uxMZgBicF98z6JsuwQIyYjEqaDoNlyqx0M/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">Form 1099-K, Payment Card and Third Party Network Transactions</a>. The previous reporting thresholds remained in place for 2023, which are more than $20,000 in payments and over 200 transactions. Taxpayers could have still received forms below the threshold.It’s important to know that regardless of if a taxpayer received a Form 1099-K or not,&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvbmV3c3Jvb20vdGF4LXRpbWUtZ3VpZGUtaXJzLXJlbWluZGVyLXRvLXJlcG9ydC1hbGwtaW5jb21lLWdpZy1lY29ub215LWFuZC1zZXJ2aWNlLWluZHVzdHJ5LWRpZ2l0YWwtb3ItZm9yZWlnbi1hc3NldHMtYW5kLXNvdXJjZXMiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMzAxLjkxMDk5NjAxIn0.BKcKZSSmmLf04wBwxe95ds4LhbgOCA79vzcRZhs2VdM/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">they must report their income</a>. This includes payments they receive in cash, property, goods, digital assets or foreign sources or assets.The Form 1099-K should not report personal payments like gifts and reimbursements.What to do when filing taxesIt’s important to understand&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvYnVzaW5lc3Nlcy91bmRlcnN0YW5kaW5nLXlvdXItZm9ybS0xMDk5LWsiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMzAxLjkxMDk5NjAxIn0.5tAB1mFMj3NZsM0aBhB2iw2GpzG-S1zNVOWGPL3RCeg/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">why an individual received a Form 1099-K</a>. Taxpayers can then use it with their other tax records when it’s time to file their return. The form provides the gross amount of payment card/third party network transactions and may include a combination of different kinds of total payments received.It's important to note, just because a payment is reported on a Form 1099-K does not mean it’s taxable.Taxpayers should review the form or forms, determine if the amount is correct, and determine any deductible expenses associated with the payment they may be able to claim when they file their taxes.Selling personal items at a lossIf an individual sold items at a loss, which means they paid more for the items than for what they sold them, there is not a tax liability. They’ll be able to zero out the payment on their tax return by reporting both the payment and an offsetting adjustment on a&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcHViL2lycy1wZGYvZjEwNDBzMS5wZGYiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMzAxLjkxMDk5NjAxIn0.RDXcbE65C3Mc181G2sUnfFCpvRP69h83YXH2PMZl5YY/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">Form 1040, Schedule 1</a>. This will ensure if they received these forms, they don't have to pay taxes they don't owe.Selling personal items at a gainIf an individual sold items at a gain, which means they paid less than for what they sold it, they will have to report that gain as income, and it's taxable.See IRS.gov&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvYnVzaW5lc3Nlcy93aGF0LXRvLWRvLXdpdGgtZm9ybS0xMDk5LWsiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMzAxLjkxMDk5NjAxIn0.YVftzmUtfO9ofijaGc6dWLXhBsfLAiGnFgNxlU7dpbA/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">What to do with Form 1099-K</a>&nbsp;for specific instruction on how to report personal item sales.What to do with a Form 1099-K received in errorPeople may get a Form 1099-K when they shouldn't have if it:<ul>
 <li>Reports personal payments from family or friends like gifts or reimbursements.</li><li>Doesn't belong to them.</li><li>Duplicates a Form 1099-K or other information reporting form they already received.</li>
 </ul>If this happens:<ul>
 <li>Contact the issuer immediately – see "Filer" on the top left corner of Form 1099-K to find out the name and contact information of the issuer.</li><li>Ask for a corrected Form 1099-K that shows a zero amount.</li><li>Keep a copy of the original form and all correspondence with the issuer for your records.</li><li>Don't wait to file taxes.&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvYnVzaW5lc3Nlcy93aGF0LXRvLWRvLXdpdGgtZm9ybS0xMDk5LWsjY29ycmVjdGVkIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDMwMS45MTA5OTYwMSJ9.CAfQFlFBVDDF8WV26gkgFJUIlCTTry1CpIlwMtEbo1c/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">File even if a corrected Form 1099-K is unavailable</a>.</li>
 </ul>What to do with an incorrect Form 1099-KIf the payee Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) or gross payment amount is incorrect taxpayers should request a corrected form from the issuer.<ul>
 <li>See "Filer" on the top left corner of Form 1099-K to find the name and contact information of the issuer. If a taxpayer doesn't recognize the issuer, they should contact the Payment Settlement Entity (PSE) identified on the bottom left corner of the form above their account number.</li><li>Keep a copy of the corrected Form 1099-K with other tax records, along with any correspondence from the issuer or PSE.</li><li>Don't contact the IRS. The IRS can't correct a Form 1099-K from an issuer.</li>
 </ul>Don't wait to file taxes. To file a tax return, take these steps:<ul>
 <li>If the Payee Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) is incorrect report payments from the Form 1099-K and any sources of income on the appropriate tax return you normally file.</li><li>If the gross payment amount is incorrect report the amount from your incorrect Form 1099-K on&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvcHViL2lycy1wZGYvZjEwNDBzMS5wZGYiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMzAxLjkxMDk5NjAxIn0.8Rz-jbO5Po_ZLTYVi-mZOLeBZ42cFHd4pb5PnisuMeM/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">Schedule 1 (Form 1040), Additional Income and Adjustments to Income</a>.</li>
 </ul>More InformationSee&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvYnVzaW5lc3Nlcy93aGF0LXRvLWRvLXdpdGgtZm9ybS0xMDk5LWsiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMzAxLjkxMDk5NjAxIn0.TrP-blq5a2Vt3kfVPW4mlDhFlKHHi1azDXJCRKvS5Z0/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">What to do with Form 1099-K</a>&nbsp;for more information on how to report an incorrect Form 1099-K.See&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvYnVzaW5lc3Nlcy91bmRlcnN0YW5kaW5nLXlvdXItZm9ybS0xMDk5LWsiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMzAxLjkxMDk5NjAxIn0.nIYdvCcNQbeNS2PFoHvck5Sgle4JXyxH3QTDgj032n0/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">Understanding Your Form 1099-K</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lmlycy5nb3YvbmV3c3Jvb20vZm9ybS0xMDk5LWstZmFxcyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAzMDEuOTEwOTk2MDEifQ.m1EKHm7QpmPHvcyRTffZFGPbl73S1PcHmn5Y_vIFo60/s/1558083055/br/238045323603-l">Form 1099-K FAQs</a>&nbsp;for more information.

What taxpayers should do if they received a Form 1099-K in 2024

TOPEKA – In an effort to reduce traffic fatalities, the Kansas Department of Transportation and the Drive To Zero Coalition will host the first Drive To Zero Day at the Capitol from 9 a.m. to noon on Thursday, Feb. 29, on the second floor of the Kansas Statehouse.

A news conference with state leaders will take place at 9:30 a.m. Crash data dashboard demonstrations, information booths from the DTZ Coalition and the Kansas Traffic Safety Resource Office and other activities will be available during the three-hour event.

“DTZ Day at the Capitol acknowledges a shared responsibility and commitment to reaching zero lives lost in traffic crashes,” said Secretary of Transportation Calvin Reed, who is also Chair of the Drive To Zero Coalition. “Preliminary data shows 2023 was the first time since 2015 where Kansas has been under 400 traffic fatalities. While we are trending in the right direction, we still have work to do.”

At the event, attendees will have the opportunity to learn how communities, law enforcement, businesses and first responders are working together on strategic initiatives to save lives on Kansas roads. Elected officials and transportation safety stakeholders will be on hand to talk with the public.

Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtzZG90Lmdvdi90cmFuc3BvcnRhdGlvbnNhZmV0eS5hc3A_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDIyNi45MDgxMzI5MSJ9.uAT9ylbzoa8EFivjwohXfj2HqgZN3LbpKuGbHk7Sv_A/s/1410649012/br/237729932289-l">https://www.ksdot.gov/transportationsafety.asp</a>&nbsp;to learn more about transportation safety initiatives under the DTZ Coalition and the Kansas Strategic Highway Safety Plan.

TOPEKA – In an effort to reduce traffic fatalities, the Kansas Department of Transportation and the Drive To Zero Coalition will host the first Drive To Zero Day at the Capitol from 9 a.m. to noon on Thursday, Feb. 29, on the second floor of the Kansas Statehouse.A news conference with state leaders will take place at 9:30 a.m. Crash data dashboard demonstrations, information booths from the DTZ Coalition and the Kansas Traffic Safety Resource Office and other activities will be available during the three-hour event.“DTZ Day at the Capitol acknowledges a shared responsibility and commitment to reaching zero lives lost in traffic crashes,” said Secretary of Transportation Calvin Reed, who is also Chair of the Drive To Zero Coalition. “Preliminary data shows 2023 was the first time since 2015 where Kansas has been under 400 traffic fatalities. While we are trending in the right direction, we still have work to do.”At the event, attendees will have the opportunity to learn how communities, law enforcement, businesses and first responders are working together on strategic initiatives to save lives on Kansas roads. Elected officials and transportation safety stakeholders will be on hand to talk with the public.Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtzZG90Lmdvdi90cmFuc3BvcnRhdGlvbnNhZmV0eS5hc3A_dXRtX21lZGl1bT1lbWFpbCZ1dG1fc291cmNlPWdvdmRlbGl2ZXJ5IiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDIyNi45MDgxMzI5MSJ9.uAT9ylbzoa8EFivjwohXfj2HqgZN3LbpKuGbHk7Sv_A/s/1410649012/br/237729932289-l">https://www.ksdot.gov/transportationsafety.asp</a>&nbsp;to learn more about transportation safety initiatives under the DTZ Coalition and the Kansas Strategic Highway Safety Plan.

Drive To Zero Day at Capitol set for today

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. (AP) — The moon’s newest arrival was said to be “alive and well” a day after making the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/moon-landing-private-company-intuitive-machines-9c896bfca61582773d381f4045fd35d7">first U.S. landing</a>&nbsp;in half a century, but flight controllers were still trying to get a better handle on its bearings.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708707904055.png" alt="Image from a simulation video provided by Intuitive Machines&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Image from a simulation video provided by Intuitive Machines&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. (AP) — The moon’s newest arrival was said to be “alive and well” a day after making the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/moon-landing-private-company-intuitive-machines-9c896bfca61582773d381f4045fd35d7">first U.S. landing</a>&nbsp;in half a century, but flight controllers were still trying to get a better handle on its bearings.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Lunar Surface Day One Update (23FEB2024 0818 CST) Odysseus is alive and well. Flight controllers are communicating and commanding the vehicle to download science data. The lander has good telemetry and solar charging. We continue to learn more about the vehicle’s specific…&mdash; Intuitive Machines (@Int_Machines) <a href="https://twitter.com/Int_Machines/status/1761032731729739804?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 23, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Intuitive Machines reported Friday that it’s communicating with its lander, Odysseus, and sending commands to acquire science data. But it noted: “We continue to learn more about the vehicle’s specific information” regarding location, overall health and positioning.(click below to watch a replay of the landing)<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Dg2ffigGcYM?si=faNrnj88EqV5Ek9W" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>The Houston company was shooting for the south polar region, near the Malapert A crater, closer to the pole than anyone else so NASA could scout out the area before astronauts show up later this decade.With Thursday’s touchdown, Intuitive Machines became the first private business to pull off a moon landing, a feat previously achieved by only five countries. The mission was sponsored in large part by NASA, whose experiments were on board. NASA paid $118 million for the delivery under a program meant to jump-start the lunar economy.One of the NASA experiments was pressed into service when the lander's navigation system failed in the final few hours before touchdown. The lander took an extra lap around the moon to allow time for the last-minute switch to NASA's laser system.“Odie is a scrapper,” mission director Tim Crain said late Thursday via X, formerly Twitter.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1708646787215.png" alt="-Members of the Intuitive Machines team celebrate the success Thursday evening" />
 <figcaption>-Members of the Intuitive Machines team celebrate the success Thursday evening</figcaption>
 </figure>Another experiment didn't go so well. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University's EagleCam — a set of six cameras — was supposed to eject 30 seconds before touchdown so it could capture pictures from afar of Odysseus' touchdown. EagleCam landed, instead, still attached to the lander.The original plan had to be modified during the last orbit due to “unexpected events,” a university spokeswoman explained.Intuitive Machines was the second company to aim for the moon under NASA's commercial lunar services program. Last month, Pittsburgh's Astrobotic Technology gave it a shot, but a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/moon-landing-spacecraft-reenter-burned-e7abeeac01711633eaa807b050704084">fuel leak on the lander</a>&nbsp;cut the mission short and the craft ended up crashing back to Earth.Until Thursday, the U.S. had not landed on the moon since Apollo 17's Gene Cernan and Harrison Schmitt closed out NASA's famed moon-landing program in December 1972. NASA's new effort to return astronauts to the moon is named Artemis after Apollo's mythological twin sister. The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nasa-moon-landings-artemis-delay-23e425d490c0c9e65ae774ec2e00f090">first Artemis crew landing</a>&nbsp;is planned for 2026 at the earliest.

Misc